Gatwick South Terminal welcomes over 25 million passengers every year. That makes it one of the busiest terminals in the country.
Whether you’re flying with British Airways, Wizz Air or TUI, this guide walks you through everything you need to know before you travel.
A Brief History
Gatwick South Terminal first opened in 1958. Back then, it stood as the airport’s only terminal, with just 11 aircraft stands.
Engineers pioneered an early undercover walkway here. It let passengers wait in comfort before boarding, a genuine first for its time.
Between 2008 and 2014, the terminal underwent a £1.2 billion refurbishment. The upgrade added 19 modern security lanes and a dedicated route for passengers with disabilities.
Which Airlines Fly From South Terminal
South Terminal now serves as the home base for several major carriers. British Airways operates its short-haul Gatwick routes here, alongside Wizz Air, Vueling, TAP Portugal and most TUI services.
Jet2 relocated here in March 2026. Check your boarding pass carefully if you’ve flown with them before, since they previously operated from the North Terminal.
| Airline | Typical Route Type |
| British Airways | Short-haul European |
| Jet2 | European and Mediterranean leisure |
| Wizz Air | European budget |
| TUI (most services) | Package holiday charters |
| TAP Portuga | European |
Getting There
Gatwick South Terminal connects directly to Gatwick Airport railway station. That makes it the more convenient terminal for anyone travelling by train from central London.
The Gatwick Express runs frequently from Victoria. Thameslink services often work out cheaper and stop at more central stations along the way.
If you’re driving, you’ll find Short Stay, Long Stay, Premium and Valet parking options. Off-site car parks typically offer better value than on-airport facilities.
Facilities Inside The Terminal
Once you arrive at the terminal, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied. It houses around 42 shops and restaurants spread across check-in, departures and arrivals areas.
Families benefit from dedicated baby-changing facilities, a multi-faith chapel, and a family-friendly security lane designed to speed things along. Travellers wanting extra comfort can choose from four separate lounges before their flight.
Security And Timing Advice
Officially, Gatwick recommends arriving two hours before European flights and three hours before long-haul departures. During school holidays and peak periods, queues can stretch far longer, so building in extra time pays off.
Gatwick has scrapped the old 100ml liquid rule too. Containers up to two litres can now stay in your cabin bag without any fuss.
Connecting Between Terminals
If your connecting flight departs from the North Terminal, don’t panic. A free shuttle service links both terminals around the clock, with journeys taking roughly two minutes each way.
Allow 90 minutes for terminal-to-terminal connections, compared with 60 minutes if you’re staying within Gatwick South Terminal itself. Remember that South and North sit on opposite sides of the runway, so you cannot walk between them airside.
Final Tips For A Smooth Journey
Always double-check your terminal 24 hours before departure, since airlines occasionally switch terminals without much warning. Book parking or transfers in advance where possible.
Factor in extra time during Easter, summer and Christmas periods when Gatwick South Terminal sees its heaviest footfall. A little planning goes a long way towards a stress-free start to your holiday.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive before my flight?
Aim for two hours before a European departure and three hours before a long-haul one. Arriving a little earlier during school holidays gives you extra breathing room at security.
Can I bring liquids over 100ml in my hand luggage?
Yes. The old 100ml restriction no longer applies here. Containers up to two litres can stay in your cabin bag without needing to be removed at the scanner.
How do I get to the North Terminal if my connection departs from there?
Follow the signs to the free shuttle. It runs around the clock and takes about two minutes each way, so allow at least 90 minutes total for terminal-to-terminal connections.
Is parking cheaper on-site or off-site?
Off-site car parks generally offer better value than on-airport options, though they usually involve a short shuttle transfer. Booking in advance almost always secures a lower rate than paying on arrival.
In short:
Gatwick South Terminal offers excellent rail links, a strong choice of airlines, and solid facilities. Plan, and your journey through it should run smoothly.
