Gatwick Airport South Terminal Evacuated Due to Security Incident

A major security incident has led to the evacuation of a large section of Gatwick Airport's South Terminal, the UK's second-busiest airport.

Passengers and staff were escorted out of the terminal as emergency services and airport authorities launched an investigation into the situation, which is described as "ongoing."

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the airport confirmed, “Safety and security of our passengers and staff remains our top priority. We are working hard to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.”

While details of the incident remain unclear, early reports indicate that it may involve a suspicious package or another security threat. Police and emergency services are actively handling the situation, and additional information is expected as the investigation unfolds.

Passengers have reported significant disruption, with large crowds gathered outside the terminal and in surrounding streets and car parks.

One traveller described arriving at the airport only to find a chaotic scene, saying, "people are being taken outside. Trains shut down and thousands are all over the streets and car parks waiting."

In some cases, passengers already near boarding gates were instructed to stay put and avoid returning to the departure lounge. Despite the disruption, the North Terminal remains fully operational, and flights from there are proceeding as scheduled.

Transport Services Affected

The incident has also disrupted local transport. Gatwick Express trains have temporarily ceased operations to the airport, with the train operator confirming that Gatwick Airport will not be served "until further notice." Local bus services to and from the airport have also been halted, leaving many travellers stranded and uncertain about how to proceed.

Gatwick Express advised passengers to delay their travel plans, stating, "This is due to the police and emergency services dealing with an incident at the airport. At present, the station and airport are being evacuated. We would recommend delaying your journey until later this morning."

What’s Next?

Authorities are urging passengers to stay updated through official channels and to avoid the South Terminal until further notice. The cause of the evacuation is still under investigation, and police are expected to release more information as the situation develops. For now, Gatwick Airport and its partners are focusing on ensuring safety and restoring normal operations as quickly as possible.
 Source: Sky news
Image: Youtube