Flaming Car Sparks Panic at Gatwick Airport’s North Terminal
Blaze Erupts in Busy Airport Car Park
A vehicle suddenly burst into flames at Gatwick Airport’s North Terminal car park just before 1:30pm today. The intense fire reached the terminal’s entry and exit barriers, forcing officials to temporarily shut down access. Emergency services rushed to the scene within minutes.
Firefighters Battle Fierce Blaze
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (WSFRS) quickly deployed two fire engines to tackle the blaze. Eyewitness Simon Doce, leaving the terminal, recalled the terrifying scene: “I could smell the fire as soon as I walked out. Then, as we moved closer, the car was fully engulfed in flames.”
Situation Under Control, Investigation Underway
The fire was extinguished shortly after 2pm, though firefighters stayed on site to monitor for flare-ups. A Gatwick Airport spokesperson confirmed the North Terminal car park has reopened and operations are now running smoothly.
WSFRS urged nearby residents to steer clear of the area, warning, “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.” No injuries have been reported.
Cause of Fire Unknown
The origin of the blaze remains a mystery. Sussex Police are involved and an investigation is ongoing.