Gatwick Airport's water system failed on 26 July 2026, leaving both terminals without running water or functional toilets. Passengers reported dry lavatories, disrupting travel plans and triggering long queues. Supermarkets in Horley and the wider area ran short on bottled water as panic buying took off. The fault's cause and exact location remain unconfirmed. Horley town and surrounding areas also reported water problems. Airport authorities have not said 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