The True Story

COME FROM AWAY is based on actual events that took place on September 11, 2001 and the days that followed.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
9:26 AM

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) makes the decision to shut down its airspace, forcing over 4,000 planes to land at the nearest airport. Inbound flights from Europe are diverted to Canada.

Postcard image featuring map of Gander, Newfoundland
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
12:00 PM

Gander International Airport is told 18 planes will be flying into the airport.

Passengers are not allowed to leave the plane.

Gander International Airport is told 18 planes will be flying into the airport.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
12:15 PM

13 additional planes land at Gander International Airport.

13 additional planes land at Gander International Airport.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
4:30 PM

A total of 38 planes have landed in Gander, carrying 6,579 passengers and crew.

For a town like Gander with a population of 10,000 people, this was an extraordinary challenge to take on.

A total of 38 planes have landed in Gander, carrying 6,579 passengers and crew.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2001
5:17 PM

Passengers are allowed to leave the plane.

It’s been over 5 hours since they’ve first landed and have stayed inside the plane on Gander’s runway.

The “Come From Aways” are driven to Salvation Army centers, churches, schools, and community centers in Gander and in neighboring towns.

Passengers are allowed to leave the plane.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2001
12:00 AM

Planes begin to be cleared for takeoff and continue throughout the day.

Planes begin to be cleared for takeoff and continue throughout the day.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2001
1:05 PM

All remaining “Come From Aways” arrive at Gander International Airport for takeoff.

All remaining “Come From Aways” arrive at Gander International Airport for takeoff.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2001
6:20 PM

The final diverted plane takes off.

The final diverted plane takes off.