In 2001 the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center in New York cast a shadow over the IAA in Frankfurt . The exhibition went ahead all the same . As a mark of solidarity with the victims and their dependants , all show elements and loud music as well as the official opening ceremony with the Federal Chancellor were cancelled . VDA President Gottschalk explained this decision : " Because we could not permit terrorist forces to take away our freedom of action . And because , as a key international sector , we have a responsibility not to allow things to grind to a halt . " In an impressive manner , the general public confirmed that this indeed was the right decision to take : More than 800,000 people visited this " quiet IAA "
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
International Motor Show Germany