Two Detained Over Suspicious Package at Gatwick Airport
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Two Detained Over Suspicious Package at Gatwick Airport
D Gatwick Airport’s South Terminal was evacuated on Friday morning after reports of a suspicious package prompted a security alert. Two individuals were temporarily detained by police but were later released and allowed to continue their journeys.
D The evacuation began at 10:55 GMT as an explosive ordnance disposal team was called in to investigate and "make the package safe." Sussex Police confirmed the incident, and the terminal reopened later in the day. However, passengers were warned to expect ongoing delays and cancellations.
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Widespread Disruption
D The evacuation caused significant disruption, with around 40 flights canceled out of more than 240 scheduled for the day, according to a Gatwick Airport spokesperson. Thousands of passengers were left waiting outside the terminal in near-freezing temperatures, many expressing frustration over a lack of clear communication. D
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D John Mather, who had just flown into the South Terminal from Costa Rica, described the chaotic scene. “We were bussed to the North Terminal to go through immigration and collect our bags, but there was no help from airport or security staff,” he said. Mather, a Croydon resident, faced further inconvenience as train services to Gatwick were briefly suspended.
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Passengers Left Scrambling
D Others shared similar frustrations. Gabriele Lecce, who was scheduled to fly to Rome, recalled being evacuated shortly after arriving at departures. “We’re freezing out here,” he said.
Emily Fisher and her three friends had to make alternative plans, spending £1,200 on new tickets to Budapest departing from Luton Airport. “When we arrived, there were hundreds of people outside. Staff didn’t seem to know what was happening,” Fisher explained.
D Some passengers resorted to hitchhiking or other creative means to continue their journeys.
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Gradual Resumption of Services
D By Friday afternoon, shuttle trains to the South Terminal had resumed, and passengers began boarding delayed flights. Despite this, many remained cautious. “Until we’re on the plane, we can’t relax,” said Alaia, 18, who was traveling home to Barcelona.
Travel journalist Simon Calder estimated that around 100,000 passengers were scheduled to travel through Gatwick Airport on Friday, with half using the South Terminal.
D A Gatwick Airport spokesperson advised passengers to check their flight status with their airline and remain patient as operations gradually return to normal.
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D This version maintains the core details while improving flow and readability. Let me know if further refinements are needed!
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