Gatwick Airport Receives Normal Water Supply Again After Burst Main
Gatwick Airport experienced a significant water disruption yesterday due to a burst main in Horley that affected both of its terminals. SES Water identified the fault and has been working to resolve the issue, stating that water pressure is gradually stabilising, although complete restoration within the terminals is still pending.
Despite the water issues, all flights at the airport proceeded without delays or cancellations. However, certain services within the terminals were impacted. While toilets in the North Terminal had to be closed, most in the South Terminal remained operational. Food outlets in the North Terminal were limited to seating only, though the airport has reported that dining services are now resuming with hot meals available.
Passenger Natasha Nzekwe, scheduled for a flight to Amsterdam, expressed her frustration about the situation, particularly the inability to use the facilities to wash hands. Similarly, Naduni Abeywickrama, en route from London to Aberdeen, noted this was the second occurrence, describing it as “extremely frustrating.”
Anthony Rochester from SES Water indicated that measures were being taken to reroute the water network to restore supply to Gatwick and its vicinity. Meanwhile, Gatwick Airport management has been actively coordinating with their partners to mitigate the issue’s effects and keep passengers informed through timely updates.
The incident draws parallels with a previous event in July when the airport faced a water shortage due to a power outage at a local treatment plant, causing extensive discomfort and service disruption for several hours.
As the situation improves, Gatwick Airport authorities appreciate passengers’ cooperation and assure them of ongoing communication as they work to rectify the problem entirely.
Reporting based on coverage first published by bbc.co.uk.