Gatwick Airport Faces Water Supply Issues, Toilets Non-functional
Translated from Slovak, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- London Gatwick Airport reported a significant water supply issue on Sunday, affecting both terminals.
- Passengers experienced non-functional toilets, closed restaurants, and difficulties obtaining water.
- The disruption was caused by a power outage at a nearby water treatment plant, with water company SES Water working to restore service.
London Gatwick Airport, the United Kingdom's second-busiest, experienced significant disruptions on Sunday due to a water supply problem affecting both of its terminals. Passengers reported a range of inconveniences, including non-functioning toilets, closed restaurants, and an inability to wash hands or refill water bottles.
Water supply problem
The airport stated on social media that the water issue in the surrounding Horley area had disrupted operations. While flights were reportedly not impacted, the lack of basic facilities caused considerable discomfort for travelers and staff. Bottled water was being distributed, and additional measures were being taken to ensure passenger comfort.
The problem affects water supply in both terminals and is currently being investigated.
SES Water, the regional water supplier, identified a power outage at a nearby water treatment plant as the cause of the "series of complications." This outage led to low water pressure or temporary supply interruptions for some customers in the area. The company is collaborating with Gatwick Airport to restore normal service as quickly as possible.
A power outage in the area this morning caused a series of complications.
The incident highlights the vulnerability of essential services, even at major international hubs. While the airport assured that flights were operating, the lack of water underscored the critical importance of consistent utility supply for the seamless functioning of airport operations and the well-being of passengers.
We are working with Gatwick Airport to restore normal operations as quickly as possible.
Originally published by SME in Slovak. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.