Gatwick Airport, Britain’s second busiest airport and a major hub for budget airlines including EasyJet, experienced a water supply disruption on the morning of 26 July 2026. The issue affected water services in both terminals and caused interruptions to several passenger services, though flight operations continued unaffected.
Cause of Water Supply Issue
The disruption was caused by a power outage at a nearby water treatment facility operated by SES Water. This outage reduced water pressure and supply in the Horley area, impacting both terminals at Gatwick Airport. SES Water confirmed the power outage at their nearby plant triggered the water supply issue.
Passenger Impact and Airport Response
Passengers were unable
to flush toilets, wash hands, access hot drinks, or refill water bottles due to the outage. Multiple airport restaurants closed as a result of the loss of running water. Bottled water was distributed to passengers and staff as an emergency measure. Gatwick Airport activated contingency plans to manage passenger welfare during the disruption.
Gatwick Airport 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.” The airport added, “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.”
Ongoing Efforts and Flight Operations Status
SES Water confirmed it is working closely with Gatwick Airport to restore normal water service as quickly as possible. Despite disruptions to passenger amenities and services, Gatwick Airport confirmed that flight schedules are not affected by the water supply disruption.
