Chaos at Gatwick: South Terminal Evacuated Over Suspicious Package
Gatwick Airport’s South Terminal was plunged into chaos on Thursday morning after a suspected prohibited item was found, triggering a full evacuation and massive disruption for travellers.
Bomb Squad Race to Secure the Scene
At 10:55 GMT, police swooped on the South Terminal following reports of suspicious luggage. Officers from Sussex Police along with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team dashed to the scene. Search dogs and squad cars were deployed as a precaution. The terminal was cleared after several tense hours once the package was made safe, allowing it to reopen later that afternoon. Meanwhile, the North Terminal remained calm and unaffected.
Travel Nightmare: Flights Delayed, Rail Links Halted
The evacuation caused chaos for hundreds of passengers. Flights were either delayed or cancelled, with rail services to Gatwick temporarily suspended, leaving travellers stranded and frustrated. Waiting outside in freezing conditions, many passengers were handed thermal blankets as they endured long delays in bitter cold.
When the all-clear finally came, cheers erupted from relieved travellers. But disruption lingered well into the evening as Gatwick struggled to get back on track.
Two Detained Then Released, Police Boost Security
During the investigation, two people were briefly detained but later let go and allowed to continue their journeys. Sussex Police stressed that public safety was their priority throughout the operation. A visible increase in police presence at Gatwick remains as travel resumes.
“We thank the public, staff, and all airport users for their patience during this incident,” said Sussex Police.
What Travellers Need to Know
- South Terminal evacuated due to suspected prohibited item.
- North Terminal operations unaffected, reopened by afternoon.
- Significant flight delays and cancellations impacted schedules.
- Rail services to Gatwick briefly suspended but now resumed.
Passengers are urged to keep checking directly with their airlines as residual delays are expected. This incident highlights the need for vigilance in keeping air travel safe.
