About London Gatwick Airport
London Gatwick (LGW) is the UK's second-busiest airport and a major base for low-cost and leisure travel to Europe. Its single-runway operation and two terminals make it a key alternative to Heathrow for London and the South East.
Gatwick opened as an aerodrome in the 1930s and became London's second airport after Heathrow. Continuous investment has expanded terminals and rail links.
Airport facts
- IATA / ICAO
- LGW / EGKK
- Location
- Crawley, West Sussex, RH6 0NP
- Annual passengers
- 43.2 million (2024)
- Runways
- Single main runway with dual terminals — one of the world's busiest single-runway airports.
Terminals
North Terminal
EasyJet main base and many European leisure carriers.
South Terminal
British Airways, TUI, and long-haul holiday operators.
Airlines & destinations
EasyJet, British Airways, TUI, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Norwegian, and 40+ airlines.
Getting to and from the airport
Gatwick is 28 miles south of central London, linked by the M23, A23, Gatwick Express, Thameslink, Southern Railway, and coach services from Victoria and Brighton.
Short-stay and long-stay pickup areas are signed for pre-booked private hire. Specify North or South Terminal when booking.
Facilities
Shops, restaurants, lounges, currency services, left luggage, and hotels connected via shuttle. Accessibility services are available at both terminals.
Frequently asked questions
- How far is Gatwick from central London?
- About 28 miles; road transfer typically 45–75 minutes depending on traffic. Gatwick Express reaches Victoria in around 30 minutes by train.