London Gatwick Airport experienced a water supply disruption on 26 July 2026, linked to a power outage at a nearby water treatment facility in the Horley area. The airport authority stated, “A water issue in the Horley area is causing disruption at the airport this morning. The problem is affecting water supply in both terminals and is currently under investigation.”
Passenger Facilities Disrupted, Flight Operations Unaffected
The disruption has affected passenger amenities including toilets, hand-washing stations, access to hot drinks, and water bottle refill points. Several airport restaurants suspended operations due to the lack of running water. Despite these challenges, flight operations continue as normal, with
Gatwick Airport confirming no impact on flight schedules.
Emergency Measures Deployed for Passengers and Staff
Bottled water is being handed out to passengers and staff as an emergency measure. Gatwick Airport stated, “Bottled water is being handed out to passengers and staff, and other contingency measures are being put in place to ensure the welfare of our passengers.” Contingency plans have been activated to minimize the disruption’s impact within both terminals.
SES Water Attributes Disruption to Power Outage at Water Treatment Plant
SES Water, the regional water supplier, attributed the disruption to a power outage at its water treatment plant in the Horley area. This outage caused low water pressure and temporary supply loss affecting parts of Horley
including Gatwick Airport. SES Water said it is working closely with Gatwick Airport to restore normal water service as quickly as possible.
Flight Operations Continue Despite Passenger Service Interruptions
London Gatwick Airport, Britain’s second busiest airport and a major hub for budget airlines including EasyJet, continues normal flight operations today despite the water supply disruption. Passengers are coping without toilets flushing, hand-washing facilities, access to hot drinks, or water bottle refill stations due to the ongoing issue.
