Gatwick to shut North Terminal as flights dwindle

Friday 27 March 2020

Gatwick Airport has announced it will be closing its North Terminal from next week as flight numbers dwindle due to the covid-19 outbreak.

From 1 April, all remaining flights will arrive and depart from the South Terminal.

“However, with many flights now being cancelled, we recommend that you keep in contact with your airline for the latest information. You can also check our live daily flight information," officials urged. 

The North Terminal is the main departure location for flights from London Gatwick to Jersey from carrier EasyJet.

From 1 April, we will be temporarily closing our North Terminal and consolidating all flights into our South Terminal. Please contact your airline for any information about your flight and check public transport routes, as many are operating to a reduced timetable.

More info:

— Gatwick Airport LGW (@Gatwick_Airport) March 27, 2020

It remains unclear at this stage how, if at all, the change will affect Jersey flights.

The route has already been heavily impacted by the pandemic, with numerous flights from the airport cancelled this week. 

Today, Jersey Airport only received two passenger flights: one from Southampton, and one from London. 

The news comes as many islanders, who were either holidaying or working abroad, are struggling to return home.

Pictured: The only flights into Jersey today.

Asked by Express about what support was available for those concerned they may not be able to find a route back, a government spokesperson said: “Our External Relations team is working closely with the UK Government, and liaising with partner governments and honorary consuls, to explore all options to ensure that Jersey residents who are stranded overseas, and who wish to return home, can do so in a safe and timely manner. 

“Any individuals overseas, friends or relatives who are concerned about a Jersey resident who is overseas can contact External Relations via externalrelations@gov.je or call the helpline on 445566.” 

Earlier this week, Ports of Jersey CEO Matt Thomas assured islanders that Jersey Airport is still "open for business".

He commented: "At the airport, our focus is on ensuring that air connectivity is available for islanders requiring medical evacuation, non-emergency medical treatment in the UK, repatriation from overseas and the movement of essential workers to keep our emergency services running.  

"Our team at the harbour is working tirelessly alongside ferry operators, freight companies and stevedoring services to ensure our supply chain works as normal and the shelves in shops remain filled.

"I would like to give special thanks to the amazing effort and teamworking that’s taking place across all the companies operating at the airport and harbour.  We’re operating in a rapidly changing and challenging environment, but we’re all in this together. I am proud of their professionalism, commitment and dedication to our critical operations.”