Gatwick Airport's water main failed on 26 July 2026, leaving both terminals short on running water or usable toilets. Passengers reported no pressure in lavatories, throwing travel plans into chaos and triggering long queues. Supermarkets in Horley and the surrounding area ran out of bottled water as panic buying took off. The fault's cause and exact location are still unconfirmed. Horley town and nearby villages also reported water issues. Airport authorities have not confirmed when service will return.
Sources & References
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Water supply problem affects both terminals at Gatwick Airport - BBC
Water supply problem affects both terminals at Gatwick Airport BBC
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No working toilets or running water at Gatwick as airport suffers major outage - Sky News
No working toilets or running water at Gatwick as airport suffers major outage Sky News
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Water supply problem affects both terminals at Gatwick Airport - BBC
Water supply problem affects both terminals at Gatwick Airport BBC
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Water supply problems reported in Horley and Gatwick area as airport reportedly impacted - SussexWorld
Water supply problems reported in Horley and Gatwick area as airport reportedly impacted SussexWorld
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Gatwick Airport suffers major water shortage as travellers unable to flush toilets - The Independent
Gatwick Airport suffers major water shortage as travellers unable to flush toilets The Independent