Gatwick Airport lost running water Sunday, forcing toilet closures and food outlet shutdowns.
Why it matters: The outage hit a major travel hub, disrupting sanitation and basic passenger services across both terminals. That can slow operations, affect comfort and create knock-on delays for travelers and staff.
- Gatwick Airport in West Sussex, England, said a water issue in the Horley area was disrupting service.
- AP said the outage affected both terminals, with toilets out of order and food and drink outlets closed.
- BBC reported bottled water was being handed out to passengers and staff while the problem was investigated.
- SES Water said a power outage at its Bough Beech Water Treatment Works caused a drop in pressure and a temporary loss of supply for some customers in Kent and Sussex.
Gatwick Airport said a water issue in the Horley area was disrupting service across both terminals, forcing toilet closures and shutting food and drink outlets. The Guardian reported the airport was investigating the disruption, while AP said toilets were out of order and food and drink outlets were closed.
BBC reported that bottled water was being handed out to passengers and staff while the outage was examined, and later said water was returning at the airport.
SES Water said a power outage at its Bough Beech Water Treatment Works caused a drop in pressure and a temporary loss of supply for some customers in Kent and Sussex. Gatwick said it was working with SES Water to restore supply as quickly as possible. Reuters reported restoration work was underway.
By the numbers
- 2 - terminals affected at Gatwick, according to AP
- 2 - Gatwick's rank as the U.K.'s second-busiest airport
Yes, but: The airport and utility said supply was being restored, so the duration and wider operational impact may prove limited.