Gatwick airport evacuates south terminal over security alert

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Gatwick airport evacuates south terminal over security alert

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By Sky Industry News

Nov 22, 2024

London Gatwick Airport's South Terminal was evacuated today due to a security incident, prompting a response from local authorities. A bomb squad was deployed to the terminal after a prohibited item was discovered in luggage, according to Sussex Police.

In a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, London Gatwick Airport announced that the evacuation was a precautionary measure. "Passengers will not be able to enter the South Terminal while this is ongoing. Safety and security of our passengers and staff remains our top priority. We are working hard to resolve the issue as quickly as possible." The North Terminal remained unaffected.

Sussex Police also posted on X about the situation: "Police were called at 8.20am this morning and, as a precaution, an EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team is being deployed." The police advised the public to avoid the area due to road closures around the South Terminal.

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Flight disruptions occurred as at least three Vueling Airbus A320 aircraft turned back mid-flight. These included flights returning to Barcelona-El Prat Airport and Seville San Pablo Airport. However, it was unclear if these diversions were directly related to the incident.

Despite these events, no departures from Gatwick have been canceled. However, some flights experienced delays, such as KM Malta Airlines flight KM117 and British Airways flight BA2263.

Rail services by Gatwick Express were temporarily halted but are expected to resume once the terminal reopens fully. Passengers were advised to use alternative routes during this period.

The situation has since been resolved, with London Gatwick Airport confirming that operations at the South Terminal would soon return to normal. "The South Terminal is reopening to staff and will be open to passengers shortly," stated LGW on X. They thanked everyone for their patience during the disruption and reiterated their commitment to safety and security.