On Sunday, 26 July 2026, Gatwick Airport experienced a complete water outage in both terminals caused by a power failure at SES Water’s Bough Beech water treatment works. The outage affected water supply in the airport and parts of Kent, Surrey, and south London.
Power Outage Causes Extensive Operational Disruptions
The lack of running water forced many restaurants and bars within Gatwick Airport to close. Some outlets offering packaged meals and retail shops remained open. Toilet facilities faced significant issues, with several closures and long queues due to the absence of running water for handwashing and flushing. Flight operations were also disrupted, with delays including a
flight from Valencia and delays for passengers flying to destinations such as Lefkada, Greece. Landing slots were adjusted to reduce arrivals and ease congestion.
Official Responses from SES Water, Gatwick Airport, and EasyJet
SES Water confirmed the power was restored at the Bough Beech treatment works but stated that the water still required treatment before supply could fully resume. The company spokesperson said, “Our Bough Beech water treatment works are back up and running. We now need to treat the water before returning services to normal as quickly as we possibly can.” Gatwick Airport apologized for the disruption, noting, “There is currently no water supply in either terminal. Our
staff are on hand to support passengers and provide assistance where needed, some restaurant partners have opened to provide additional seating.” EasyJet announced a change in their operations, reducing bag drop opening times from three hours to two hours before departure and urged passengers not to arrive earlier to manage congestion.
Passenger Reports Highlight Lack of Communication and Facility Issues
Passengers reported frustration over the outage and inadequate information. Paul Lee said there were no announcements or bottled water distribution, adding, “For people who need to go to the toilet, this isn’t good, and still no announcement or official information – and the water they mentioned isn’t being distributed.”
Roger Wood confirmed that major restaurants including Nando’s and Wetherspoon remained closed due to no water. Former MP Michael Dugher criticized the airport for denying access to seating in those closed establishments, stating, “No water is one thing but depriving people of somewhere to sit is another… families are having to sit on the floor.” Sarah Houchin reported long queues and unsanitary toilets, while Ian Bubb called the airport’s contingency planning an “absolute disgrace.”
Water Treatment and Recovery Efforts Continue
Following power restoration at Bough Beech, SES Water is proceeding with water treatment stages necessary before resuming normal supply to Gatwick Airport and surrounding areas. Airport
and water officials continue coordinating efforts to restore full services and alleviate passenger disruption.
