Gatwick Airport Water Disruption: Latest Update for Sussex Travellers
Water supply problems affected facilities across Gatwick Airport on Friday 28 August, with the North Terminal experiencing the greatest impact. Flights continued operating, but toilets and food services were disrupted.
Gatwick Airport experienced another water supply problem on Friday 28 August 2026. Both the North and South Terminals were affected, although the North Terminal saw more disruption to toilets and food services. Gatwick said flights were not affected, and water pressure began improving later in the day.
What happened at Gatwick Airport?
A water supply problem in the Horley area affected Gatwick Airport on Friday 28 August. SES Water reported customers experiencing low pressure, loss of supply and, in some locations, discoloured water.
Gatwick confirmed that the issue was affecting water supplies in both airport terminals. The disruption resulted in some toilet closures and temporary restrictions at food and drink outlets.
Which Gatwick terminal was affected most?
North Terminal
Some toilets were closed and food services were disrupted. Reports indicated restaurants were temporarily unable to provide their normal service.
South Terminal
The South Terminal was also affected by the supply problem, although most toilets were reported to remain available.
Were Gatwick flights cancelled?
No flight disruption was reported by Gatwick as a direct result of the water supply incident. The airport remained operational while the water problem was investigated and repaired.
That distinction matters. A terminal facility problem can make the passenger experience less comfortable without necessarily affecting aircraft movements, airline schedules or airport operations.
How the situation developed
This is the second Gatwick water disruption this summer
The August incident follows another significant water supply failure at Gatwick on 26 July 2026.
During the July incident, airport facilities were also affected while flights continued operating. Bottled water was distributed to passengers, and SES Water said the earlier problem was linked to its Bough Beech water treatment works.
Two separate incidents within a little over a month make water resilience at the airport a relevant issue for passengers, particularly during the busy summer travel period.
What should Sussex passengers do before travelling?
For most passengers, the key point is not to panic or assume a terminal facilities issue automatically means their flight is cancelled.
Use your airline or Gatwick's official flight information before leaving home.
Confirm whether your airline is operating from Gatwick North or South Terminal.
Terminal disruptions can create queues even when flights themselves remain on schedule.
If airport food, drink or other facilities are restricted, having basic essentials before arrival can make the journey easier.
Travelling from Sussex to Gatwick
Gatwick is the main airport for many passengers travelling from Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Hassocks, Hurstpierpoint, Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath, Worthing, Seaford, Eastbourne and surrounding Sussex communities.
When there is disruption at an airport, keeping the ground transport part of the journey organised can remove one unnecessary source of stress.
Your airport journey starts before the terminal.
Sussex Airports Taxis provides pre-booked Gatwick Airport transfers across Sussex, with 24/7 availability and flight monitoring for airport bookings.
Gatwick water disruption FAQs
Is Gatwick Airport open after the water disruption?
Yes. Gatwick remained operational during the 28 August water supply issue, and the airport said flights were not affected by the incident.
Were Gatwick flights affected?
Gatwick said there was no impact on flights during the incident. Individual passengers should still check their own airline and flight status before travelling.
Was Gatwick North Terminal affected?
Yes. The North Terminal experienced the greater impact, including some toilet closures and disruption to food services.
Was Gatwick South Terminal affected?
Yes, although reports indicated that most toilets in the South Terminal remained available.
Has Gatwick had another water outage recently?
Yes. Gatwick experienced another water supply disruption on 26 July 2026, just over a month before the latest incident.
Should I arrive early at Gatwick?
Passengers should follow the arrival guidance provided by their airline. When terminal facilities are disrupted, allowing a sensible amount of extra time can help avoid unnecessary pressure.
Can I pre-book a taxi from Sussex to Gatwick?
Yes. Sussex Airports Taxis provides pre-booked Gatwick transfers from Brighton, Lewes and communities across Sussex.
Information in this travel update is based on reporting from Gatwick Airport, SES Water and UK news sources published following the incident on 28 August 2026. Airport conditions can change, so passengers should always check official information before travelling.