Gatwick Airport evacuated over ‘security incident’ with terminal closed off as explosives team deployed
London Gatwick Airport’s South Terminal has been evacuated and an explosives team has been called in following reports of a “security incident”.
Would-be travellers have been left unable to access half of the capital’s second-largest airport while investigations are underway – with footage from the scene showing hundreds of passengers stuck outside.
The airport has said the “safety and security of our passengers and staff remains our top priority,” adding: “We are working hard to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.”
It also confirmed that flights were still arriving as normal.
One of those stuck outside Gatwick was Nick Meacham, the CEO of SportsPro Media, who shared images and videos of the travel chaos on social media as it unfolded.
He said: “Arrived at London Gatwick for a routine connection. Got through customs to find out they’re evacuating the entire airport.
“Even people through security are being taken outside. Trains shut down and thousands all over the streets and car parks waiting.”
While another flyer, Laurence Kemball-Cook, shared footage from inside the South Terminal, where he said he and other travellers had been told not to return to the departure lounge but to stay near the gates while the incident went on.
Kemball-Cook said police had told him of the “security incident” before 10.30am, adding: “It looks like they are only evacuating the main terminal, and pushing people to the gates.”
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The Gatwick Express, the rail shuttle service between London and the airport itself, explicitly told passengers: “Do not travel.”
It said it would not be serving the airport until 2pm at the earliest due to “the police and emergency services dealing with an incident at the airport”.
Southern and Thameslink services have also been put on hold while the incident is dealt with.
Sussex Police said officers were called to the South Terminal at 8.20am on Friday after “a suspected prohibited item” was discovered in some luggage.
An explosives team has been deployed to the airport, the force added.
A statement continued: “To ensure the safety of the public, staff and other airport users, a security cordon has been put in place whilst the matter is dealt with.
“This is causing significant disruption and some roads around the South Terminal have been closed. We’d advise the public to avoid the area where possible.”
More to follow…