Gatwick airport has started to reopen its South Terminal, which was evacuated this morning after the discovery of a “suspected prohibited item” in luggage.
A spokesperson for the hub said: “The earlier security alert has now been resolved and cleared by police.
“The South Terminal is reopening to staff and will be open to passengers shortly.
“Trains will also start calling at Gatwick airport once the terminal is fully reopened.
“We would like to thank everyone for their patience and understanding while this situation was resolved. Safety and security is always our top priority.
“There are some delays and cancellations, passengers should contact their airline for any updates on flights.”
Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, offered advice to travellers, saying: “If your flight is cancelled or delayed, you won’t be entitled to compensation as this was an extraordinary circumstance; however you will be entitled to assistance from your airline.
“Depending on how long you’re delayed, this could include free food and drink – usually in the form of vouchers – as well as overnight accommodation if it becomes necessary.
“If your flight is cancelled, you have the choice of being rerouted or accepting a refund, and if you opt for the former, your airline is obliged to get you on a new flight as soon as possible, including with rival carriers. If you instead accept a refund, be aware that your airline will have no further duty of care to you.
“It is also worth checking the terms of your travel insurance to see if you are able to recoup any other expenses you may have incurred as a result of the delays, such as car hire or airport parking fees.”