Everything You Need to Know Before Flying from London Gatwick (LGW)
London Gatwick (LGW) is the UK’s second-busiest airport, but it can be surprisingly confusing. With two separate terminals, a new drop-off charge, and changing security rules, you need the latest information to avoid stress.
Gatwick features a single runway handling up to 55 movements per hour, serving over 220 destinations with 60 airlines, including easyJet as its largest operator. Located 30 miles south of central London in West Sussex, it operates North and South Terminals connected by shuttles.
Whether you are flying long-haul to Bangkok or a short hop to Europe, this guide covers everything you need to navigate Gatwick like a pro.
History of Gatwick Airport
Originally a 1930s aerodrome, Gatwick opened commercially in 1958 with its pier-like terminal design. It pioneered the world’s first dedicated airport railway in 1958 and became the first single-runway airport over 40 million passengers annually in 2015.
Gatwick at a Glance: The Cheat Sheet
|
Feature |
Details |
|
Airport Code |
LGW |
|
Location |
30 miles (48km) South of Central London |
|
Terminals |
Two: North (N) and South (S) |
|
Transfer |
Free monorail shuttle (24/7), takes 2 minutes |
|
Train Station |
Located directly at South Terminal |
|
Free Wi-Fi |
Network: “Gatwick Free Wi-Fi” |
|
Smoking |
Strictly Prohibited after security (Airside) |
Popular Direct Destinations from Gatwick
Gatwick is a major hub for both low-cost carriers and luxury long-haul flights. If you are looking for travel inspiration, here are the top direct routes you can book right now.
|
Destination |
Best For… |
Direct Airlines from LGW |
Flight Time (Approx) |
|
Backpacking / Luxury |
British Airways, Norse Atlantic |
11h 30m |
|
|
Dubai (DXB) |
Winter Sun / Stopovers |
Emirates |
7h 00m |
|
New York (JFK) |
City Breaks |
JetBlue, Norse, British Airways |
7h 30m |
|
Orlando (MCO) |
Family / Disney |
British Airways, Norse |
9h 00m |
|
Cancun (CUN) |
Beaches / All-Inclusive |
TUI, British Airways |
10h 00m |
Travel Tip: If you are flying Norse Atlantic or JetBlue, you often get great prices, but double-check your luggage allowance as these are “low-cost long-haul” carriers.
Terminals: North vs. South (Don't Go to the Wrong One!)
The terminals are connected by a free monorail shuttle that runs every few minutes, but it is landside (before security).
Which Terminal is my Airline?
- North Terminal: easyJet (some flights), Emirates, Qatar Airways, TUI, WestJet, JetBlue.
- South Terminal: British Airways, Ryanair, Norwegian, Vueling, Wizz Air, Aer Lingus, TAP Portugal.
Important: The Train Station is attached to the South Terminal. If you are flying from North, allow an extra 15 minutes to take the shuttle.
Getting To & From Gatwick: Transport Comparison
Don’t overpay for the Gatwick Express if you don’t have to.
1. The Train Options
- Gatwick Express (Red Trains): Non-stop to Victoria (~30 mins). Fastest but most expensive.
- Thameslink (Purple/White Trains) – Best Value: Connects to St Pancras, Farringdon, and Blackfriars. Cheaper than the Express and perfect for the City of London.
- Southern Railway (Green Trains): Slower stops to Victoria and Clapham Junction. Good for budget travelers.
2. The Budget Option (Coach)
National Express / Megabus: Leaves from the lower forecourts of both terminals. Tickets can be as low as £6–£10 if booked in advance.
Parking & Drop-Off: Warning on Charges
Critical Update: Gatwick now charges £5–£10 just to enter the drop-off zone directly outside the terminal. You must pay by midnight the next day or face a fine.
How to Avoid the Fee:
Drive to the Long Stay Car Park. It has a designated “Free Drop-Off” zone. You can park for free (up to 2 hours) and take the free shuttle bus to the terminal door.
Nearest airports to London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
- Approx. 25 miles (40 km) north-west. Major international hub
Approx. 30 miles (48 km) north-east. Popular for business and short-haul flights
- Approx. 70 miles (113 km) north
Security & Liquids Rules
Gatwick has installed next-generation CT scanners in many lanes.
- The New Rule: In lanes with new scanners, you can leave laptops and liquids inside your bag.
- Liquid Limit: Technically increased to 2 Litres, BUT we recommend sticking to 100ml bottles if you have a connecting flight, as other airports may not have the same technology yet.
Where to Sleep: Hotels Connected to Terminals
- Inside South Terminal: Bloc Hotel (best for quick stays), YOTELAIR (cabins), Hilton (walkway connected).
- Inside North Terminal: Sofitel (Luxury), Hampton by Hilton (Free breakfast), Premier Inn (Budget, located opposite entrance).
Eating & Facilities
- Water: Free water fountains are located after security near the toilets. Bring an empty bottle.
- Charging: Look for the “work stations” near the gates for guaranteed power outlets; seat outlets are often broken or taken.
- Food:
- Budget: Wetherspoons (The Red Lion in North / The Flying Horse in South).
- Family: Nando’s (South Terminal).
Ready to fly? Book your London Gatwick Airport flights now with Book Air Tickets.
Explore More: How to Book Cheap air Tickets from UK in 2026
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FAQs on Cheap Flights to Bangkok from the UK
London Gatwick Airport is located about 28 miles (45 km) south of Central London, near Crawley in West Sussex, England. It is one of the main international airports serving London.
Gatwick has two terminals:
North Terminal
South Terminal
Passengers should check their airline and ticket to confirm which terminal they are flying from.
Yes, there are several hotels both inside and near the airport, including: Bloc Hotel Gatwick (inside South Terminal) Sofitel London Gatwick (connected to North Terminal) Hilton London Gatwick Airport (connected to South Terminal) These are convenient for early departures or late arrivals.
Gatwick serves many major airlines, including British Airways, easyJet, TUI Airways, and several international carriers offering both short-haul and long-haul flights.
Use the forecourt zones briefly; fines apply for waiting. Free waiting areas nearby for pick-ups; pre-book official parking for discounts.
Most easyJet flights depart from South Terminal; North handles British Airways and long-haul carriers. Always confirm with your airline or booking, as some operate from both.
Report to the terminal’s lost property office immediately; items are held for 90 days. High-value goods go to a central search.
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