Gatwick Airport experienced significant disruptions on Sunday due to a water outage affecting both of its terminals. The issue stemmed from a power failure at SES Water's Bough Beech Water Treatment Works in southeast England, which resulted in a loss of water pressure and a temporary loss of service for some customers in Kent and Sussex counties.
Passengers at the airport reported that toilets were out of order and restaurants were closed as a direct consequence of the water supply failure. The airport issued an apology on X, formerly Twitter, for the inconvenience caused.
The airport stated it was providing bottled water to passengers, though some travelers disputed this claim. Paul Lee, a passenger, told the BBC that he had not been informed of the shut-off or seen any water distribution. He expressed concern for passengers with later flights.
Michael Dugher, a former member of Parliament, noted on social media that the closure of bars and restaurants, due to the water shortage, had led to passengers sitting on the floor due to a lack of seating. He suggested the airport open these closed spaces to accommodate more passengers.