Gatwick Airport Train Services Derailed By Fire

Travel chaos hit Gatwick Airport today as a fire alarm at the train station led to an evacuation and significant disruptions. Emergency services are handling the situation, with no trains stopping at Gatwick Airport Station until further notice. The disruption is expected to last until 3 pm, affecting journeys between Brighton and London Victoria.

Passengers were evacuated into the South Terminal as smoke was seen rising from a train. Footage has been released showing a small fire under one of the carriages, accompanied by flashes and bangs. Emergency crews, including West Sussex Fire & Rescue and Gatwick Fire & Rescue, responded swiftly, extinguishing the fire and ensuring all passengers were evacuated safely.

National Rail and Southern Rail have advised travelers to allow extra time and use alternative stations, such as Horley or Three Bridges. Metrobus routes are accepting train tickets for passengers needing to reach Gatwick Airport.

Gatwick Airport is a major transport hub, with its train station directly connecting travelers to 120 destinations across the UK. Normally, trains depart every four minutes, making today’s disruption a rare inconvenience.

The airport has reassured passengers that teams are working to resolve the issue and has encouraged travelers to check updates before heading to the station. Despite the disruption, no injuries have been reported, and emergency services praised passengers and staff for their calm and swift response.

For now, if you’re travelling through Gatwick, it’s really important to plan ahead and allow extra time to reach your destination.

Planning a trip? Make sure you have travel insurance for your trip in place before you travel.

BY HOLLY GARWOOD