Crawley, West Sussex – A significant section of Gatwick Airport’s South Terminal was evacuated due to the discovery of a suspected prohibited item in a passenger’s luggage, leading to extensive disruptions for travelers. Passengers have been barred from entering the terminal since 10:55 GMT as authorities work to ensure the safety and security of all airport users.
Sussex Police deployed an EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team as a precautionary measure, leading to the implementation of a security cordon and road closures around the South Terminal. This situation has caused significant delays for passengers, with some reporting waits of up to 90 minutes to pass through security checkpoints.
Laurence Kemball-Cook, a passenger bound for Portugal, described the chaotic scene as staff rushed travelers to evacuate the terminal without providing clear information on when flights would resume. The uncertainty left passengers stranded outside in near-freezing temperatures, awaiting updates on their travel plans.
In response to the ongoing investigation, Gatwick Airport officials stated that passengers will not be allowed to enter the South Terminal until the situation is resolved. Railway services to Gatwick Airport station have been suspended, with disruptions affecting multiple train services including Thameslink, Southern, and Gatwick Express.
As the evacuation continues, British Airways and other airlines have experienced delays in several departures, impacting flights to various destinations including the USA, Portugal, and Spain. Additionally, local bus services to Gatwick have been affected, with road closures further complicating travel plans for passengers.
Travel journalist Simon Calder estimated that around 100,000 passengers were expected to travel through Gatwick Airport on the day of the incident, creating crowds and logistical challenges. While flights continue to land at the South Terminal, passengers are being redirected to the North Terminal for processing, exacerbating the congestion and delays at the airport.