In the face of tragedy, the community gave the passengers the warmest of welcomes, opening up their homes, schools, churches and anywhere else that could be turned into temporary accommodation for the “plane people”. The small town suddenly doubled in population for several days, played a huge part in what happened, and the effect it had on passengers and the Gander community.

They provided meals, bedding, and hot showers. Schools, churches, and legion halls became makeshift dorms. Some residents even invited visitors to stay in their homes. Pharmicies filled prescriptions without cost, banks of free public telephones were installed so they could call home, and donations of toiletries, clothing, and food flowed in. Much of the food was stored at the Gander Community Centre’s ice rink, turning it into “the largest walk-in freezer in the country,” according to the mayor.

Once basic needs were met, they  organized tours of the town, bowling matches, and concerts by local bands. Visitors also were introduced to regional cuisine, including partridge berries and flipper pie. One passenger was a rabbi who created a makeshift Kosher kitchen, and allergies, vegetarians and vegans all were accommodated. When asked about their generosity, residents responded that their efforts were not out of the ordinary. “For us, it was just every day,” said Janice Goudie, a local newspaper reporter. “You don’t turn your backs on people in need.”

The play has been a huge success since its first performance (in Gander). It was nominated for seven Tony Awards, and won Best Direction of a Musical. In the Olivier Awards, it was nominated for nine categories and won Best New Musical, Outstanding Achievement In Music, Best Theatre Choreographer, and the Royal Albert Hall Awards. (The relatively small cast of 14 actors each play several parts within the show, and with simple costume changes, they transform from plane passenger to Newfoundland residents.) A live band plays throughout and join the cast on stage at times.