Gatwick Airport's South Terminal reopens after security alert
Bomb disposal experts had been called to the scene
Last updated 22nd Nov 2024
A security alert at Gatwick Airport's South Terminal has been resolved after six hours.
A 'suspected prohibited item' was discovered in a passenger's luggage at around 8.00am on Friday morning (22nd November).
That led to the evacuation of passengers and staff.
In a social media statement, Gatwick Airport said:
"The earlier security alert has now been resolved and cleared by police.
"The South Terminal is reopening to staff and will be open to passengers shortly.
"Trains will also start calling at Gatwick Airport once the terminal is fully reopened.
"We would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while this situation was resolved.
"Safety and security is always our top priority.
"There are some delays and cancellations, passengers should contact their airline for any updates on flights."
Police statement
Sussex Police say they were called to the airport at 8.20am today.
They've now said their investigations have concluded:
"Officers from the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team made the package safe, and the airport has been handed back to its operator.
"Two people who were detained while enquiries were ongoing have subsequently been allowed to continue their journeys.
"There will remain an increased police presence in the area to assist with passengers accessing the South Terminal for onward travel.
"Safety of the public, staff and other airport users has been our priority throughout the operation, and we thank them for their patience while the incident was ongoing."
Travellers had reported large delays at security checks earlier in the morning.
The train station at the airport has also reopened, after being closed earlier.
Operator Southern say passengers will no longer need to use alternative routes: