A car burst into flames at Gatwick Airport earlier today, forcing the temporary suspension of access to the North Terminal and prompting a swift response from emergency services.
The fire broke out shortly before 1:30pm in the terminal’s car park area, with flames reportedly spreading to the entry and exit barriers. West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (WSFRS) quickly dispatched two fire engines to tackle the blaze.
Eyewitness Simon Doce, who had just exited the terminal, said: “I could smell the fire as soon as I walked out, then as we walked further round, we saw the vehicle fully on fire.”
The fire was brought under control and extinguished shortly after 2:00pm. However, fire crews remained at the scene for some time to ensure the area was safe and to monitor for any potential flare-ups.
A spokesperson for Gatwick Airport confirmed that the North Terminal car park has since reopened and operations have resumed as normal.
WSFRS advised caution in the surrounding area. “We are still urging residents living nearby to avoid the area near the North Terminal car park to ensure the safety of the public, staff and other airport users,” a fire service spokesperson said.
The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed. Sussex Police have been contacted for further information, and an investigation is expected to follow.
No injuries have been reported at this time.
