The Unexpected Twist in the Journey

This year, 2025, seems determined to teach resilience, adaptability, and a generally positive attitude… and I needed all of those in the last few days. On my way to the World Lung and TB conference held in Denmark this year, I couldn’t resist planning a day to Sweden and visiting family afterwards in the Netherlands. The puzzle-like plan that emerged promised a perfect planes-trains-and-automobiles adventure: starting with meeting a dear friend in Sweden whom I hadn’t seen in nearly 20 years, then taking the train to Copenhagen for a busy conference, followed by several days in the Netherlands, visiting my home-country, friends, family.

However, this did not go as planned. Instead of my initial 12-hour flight to Europe, I began what became a 60-hour journey from Ottawa to Copenhagen.

First hurdle: at Newark Airport, Swiss Air cancelled the flight I was supposed to take to Europe. With no options available later that night, we were rebooked 24 hours later and put on a bus to a friendly—but somewhat seedy—hotel. A club was pumping loud music into my otherwise clean room, and the bar was still serving dinner and cocktails when we checked in at 1 a.m. Sharing a beer and some laughs with other stranded passengers seemed like the best option.

A few hours of sleep later, awake an bright outside, it felt right to head out for a breezy walk along the Hudson River waterfront—beautiful views of NYC, autumn colours everywhere, and many happy Sunday-morning runners. I really enjoyed the vibes in Hoboken, a place I might never have thought to visit. (Did you know Frank Sinatra was born there?)

Back at Newark Airport, it seemed wisest to skip the Sweden stopover and fly directly to Copenhagen. SAS staff were helpful in making this happen. After paying $199 in change fees, I sighed with relief when the airplane finally took off. But about 1.5 hours into the flight, I noticed the flight tracker changing. We were diverting to YYR—Goose Bay, Labrador, in northern Canada.

The captain announced that one of the engines was leaking oil and, for safety reasons, we needed to land. I was somewhat unnerved to see the flashing lights of emergency vehicles as we approached the runway, but the landing was smooth. Five hours later—still on the plane at 1 a.m.—buses lined up to take us to the military barracks at Goose Bay, Wing 5. Friendly Canadians welcomed us, made sure everyone had Wi-Fi and a clean room, and sent us off to sleep. At 2:30 a.m., I collapsed into bed, then woke at 6 a.m. wondering what the next steps would be.

SAS had emailed me a customer survey asking whether I had enjoyed my flight to Copenhagen—but provided no follow-up information. I decided not to vent. Instead, I pieced things together from Danish news coverage and updates on X, where I learned a new SAS plane was on its way to pick up the stranded passengers.

It was snowing outside, but my need for coffee got me out. After a rainy-slushy hike around the barracks, I was delighted to find the Wing 5 mess hall, where Jasmine and her colleagues welcomed us with hot coffee, snacks, and warm smiles. Go Canadian hospitality! Later, we were driven to the dining mess and served a generous breakfast with everything you could hope for— including buckets of Nutella.

People shared stories and recent adventures. The Indian couple on their way to Athens, the businessman who missed his keynote speech, the Polish man who transports pets, the jazz musician headed to Europe for gigs… so many fascinating adventures. Someone started a WhatsApp group to share information, jokes, and useful SAS links, and people from all backgrounds and languages connected so naturally. Watching the air-force staff flip into welcome-mode for 200 unexpected guests made me feel proud of Canada. Diving into the history of Goose Bay, its role in the Second World War, and the region’s future plans was a surprisingly fascinating way to spend an afternoon.

By the end of the day, all airport staff had been rallied to bus us back, guide us through security, and make sure we were safely on the new plane. Six hours later, we finally landed in Copenhagen—another sleepless night behind me.

As I often tell my kids, “Life is not only about the outcomes, but also about enjoying the journey.” I was reminded of my own words these past days. One big takeaway: people are good. My fellow passengers didn’t complain or create chaos—they patiently supported one another with good humour. Life in the liminal space (between home and 'there') makes one reflect about the normal routines. Right before leaving the barracks, I found myself singing in the shower (with Spotify on loud), simply grateful for life. I met truly interesting people, and my belief in humanity received a real boost.

Or maybe I'm just sleep-drunk ranting...

I’m posting this as my first blog in my new adventure with iLINQ2. It will stand as a reminder that the path forward is not straight, that people are inherently good, and that the twists and turns in life are often worth embracing.