World & places · Evidence-backed
Gatwick Airport: 10 Key Facts About London's Second Major Airport
London Gatwick Airport is a major international gateway handling tens of millions of passengers each year. From its origins as a 1920s aerodrome to its current role as a hub for low‑cost and long‑haul carriers, Gatwick combines efficient transport connections with passenger‑focused amenities. Below are 14 candidate facts drawn from official, governmental and authoritative aviation sources; the final article will select the ten strongest.
Gatwick Airport (LGW) is London's second-busiest airport, located in Crawley, West Sussex. It operates two terminals, serves as a hub for British Airways and a base for seven airlines, and offers fast rail links to central London via Gatwick Express, Southern, and Thameslink services. The airport provides extensive family facilities, free unlimited Wi‑Fi, and is owned by Gatwick Airport Limited (Vinci Airports and GIP/BlackRock).
Location and distance from central London
Gatwick Airport lies in Crawley, West Sussex, approximately 30 miles (48 km) south of Central London. Its coordinates are 51°08′53″N 0°11′25″W and it sits at an elevation of 203 ft (62 m) above sea level. The airport serves London and the wider South East England region.
IATA and ICAO codes
The airport’s IATA code is LGW and its ICAO code is EGKK. These codes are used globally for flight planning, ticketing and air traffic control.
Opening history and the Beehive terminal
The site’s first terminal, the circular Beehive building, was completed in November 1928. The modern airport officially opened on 30 May 1958 with the South Terminal; the North Terminal followed in March 1988.
Two‑terminal layout
Gatwick operates two terminals: South Terminal (opened 1958) and North Terminal (opened 1988). Both handle domestic, European and long‑haul flights, with the railway station located at South Terminal.
Airline hub and operating bases
British Airways uses Gatwick as a hub. The airport is also an operating base for seven carriers: BA EuroFlyer, easyJet UK, Jet2.com, Norse Atlantic UK, TUI Airways, Vueling and Wizz Air UK, supporting a dense network of short‑ and long‑haul routes.
Gatwick Express rail service
The dedicated Gatwick Express runs non‑stop to London Victoria in 30 minutes, departing twice per hour. It provides the fastest direct rail link between the airport and central London.
Southern and Thameslink rail services
Southern trains serve London Victoria, Clapham Junction, Brighton and other south‑east destinations. Thameslink connects the airport with London Bridge, Blackfriars, City Thameslink, Farringdon and St Pancras International, offering cross‑London through journeys.
Railway station at South Terminal
Gatwick Airport railway station is situated at South Terminal, about a five‑minute walk from arrivals and departures. North Terminal passengers use the free inter‑terminal shuttle to reach the station.
Contactless and Oyster payment accepted
Contactless bank cards and Oyster cards are valid for rail journeys to and from Gatwick, except the 60+ Oyster photocard which is not accepted on Gatwick Express services.
Family‑friendly facilities
Both terminals feature free Kids Zones play areas in departure lounges. Dedicated Assisted Travel and family lanes operate at security. Baby‑care rooms with feeding and changing facilities are available in check‑in, transfer and post‑passport‑control areas, and all restaurants will warm a baby bottle.
Every numbered claim above was required to carry source evidence before this topic could be published.