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Gatwick Car Parking Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently asked questions:

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Whether you have a query about your flight, or the parking process at London Gatwick, our frequently asked questions are here to help.

Can a person in an electric wheelchair get onto the inter-terminal shuttle?

Yes, you can take your electric wheelchair or mobility scooter and all your luggage on the inter-terminal shuttle.

Can you give me some details about the Sensory room?

The Sensory room is a calming and relaxing environment, designed for passengers with disabilities like autism, dementia or cognitive impairment, who will benefit from a safe place when in unfamiliar surroundings. The sensory room is wheelchair accessible and free to use for passengers departing from the North Terminal. Book via our Special Assistance page.

Will I be able to stay with my family or group through security if I have organised Special Assistance?

If you have booked Special Assistance and are unable to travel through the airport without a carer or companion, we will ensure that they can accompany you throughout the entire journey, provided they are also travelling with you. If you are travelling in a larger group, then it would be best to nominate one person to stay with you. Companions may be asked to vacate our mobility equipment should it be required for other Special Assistance passengers.

Does London Gatwick report on its performance standards in Special Assistance?

Yes, London Gatwick reports on its Special Assistance performance every six months. You can view our service level agreement, which sets out what passengers with reduced mobility or disabilities can expect, on our Special Assistance page.

Our accessibility performance reports, including PRM (Passengers with Reduced Mobility) data, are also available in our Performance Reports.

What are the rules around travelling with my assistance dog?

Assistance dogs are the only dogs allowed into the terminal buildings except for animals travelling on flights. Please let your airline know at least 48 hours in advance if you're flying with an assistance dog, so the right help can be arranged. When you arrive at the airport please go to our Special Assistance reception desk where staff will be happy to help you. If your assistance dog needs a "Service Animal Spend Area" then please speak to a member of our Special Assistance team.

Any dogs travelling out of the UK must be fully vaccinated and micro-chipped and need to be registered with the European Pets Travel Scheme (PETS) and importation rules of other countries outside the EU.

Learn more about Special Assistance at London Gatwick.

Where are the Special Assistance areas in the airport?

You’ll find clearly signposted Special Assistance reception points and dedicated seating in both terminals, before and after security.

In the North Terminal before security, there's a reception desk by the entrance to the family and Special Assistance security lane. After security, you’ll find seating at the reception near Boots and the toilets in the departure lounge. In the South Terminal, the pre-security Special Assistance area is located opposite the lifts at the end of check-in zone J on the upper floor. After security, you’ll find reserved seating in the departure lounge on the upper level, opposite The Flying Horse.

To learn more or to pre-book assistance, visit our Special Assistance page.

Does London Gatwick consult with disability organisations?

Yes, London Gatwick works closely with organisations like the National Autistic Society, RNIB, Mencap, and the Alzheimer's Society to improve accessibility, especially for those with hidden disabilities.

We also have a Passenger Advisory Group, including a subgroup focused on assisted travel, to help review and improve our services.

To support planning, we've partnered with AccessAble to provide detailed accessibility guides for our terminals and transport links.

Learn more about Special Assistance at London Gatwick.

Where can I find detailed accessibility information about the car parks?

We have partnered with AccessAble, the UK's leading accessibility information provider, to create detailed access guides for our car parks. The guides cover information about Blue Badge parking, how to get assistance and the routes into our terminals.

Do I have to use the Special Assistance service if I have a condition or disability?

If you prefer to travel independently, that's completely your choice. We offer a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard for passengers who may need extra support or understanding without requesting full assistance. Wearing the lanyard helps our trained staff identify that you may appreciate a little more time, patience or help during your journey. You can find out more about this and other support we offer on our Special Assistance page.

Find out more about the Special Assistance at London Gatwick.

Are the free shuttle buses to the Long Stay car parks accessible for mobility scooters and wheelchairs?

Yes, our free shuttle buses to and from the Long Stay car parks are accessible for both mobility scooters and wheelchairs. All our car parks and shuttle services are fully compliant with the Equality Act, ensuring step-free, safe access for passengers with reduced mobility. In addition, Blue Badge parking is available in every car park, and Premium car parks offer same-level access to both the North and South Terminals for added ease.

What support is available to passengers who are feeling anxious about traveling alone?

If you're feeling anxious about travelling alone, you might find our Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard helpful. It lets staff know you may need extra time, patience or support as you move through the airport.

Please see our Travel advice for more information.

Can I travel through London Gatwick with my own mobility aid?

If you are flying from London Gatwick with your own equipment you can take it right up to the departure gate. Please make sure your airline knows in advance that you'll be travelling with your own equipment. Depending on which gate your flight departs from, it may be necessary for our assistance team to escort you to the aircraft via an alternative route. If you are travelling with an electric wheelchair or mobility scooter staff will meet you at the departure gate to help you make sure your scooter is safely turned off for the flight or your wheelchair folded. It helps us keep delays to a minimum if you know how your device works in advance.

When you arrive back to London Gatwick, your wheelchair or mobility aid should be there as you disembark the aircraft. Don't forget to advise your airline that you have your own equipment so that ground staff can get it back to you more quickly. Staff will unload your wheelchair or scooter from the hold along with the other baggage and cargo that's carried in the hold. Once this has been unloaded it will be brought up to the aircraft door via the nearest lift. In the unlikely event that your mobility aid is lost or damaged during flight, then please report this immediately to the airline. You will need to complete a report in the baggage reclaim hall and you will get a reference number. We will lend you a wheelchair until yours is returned or repaired.

How easily accessible is the journey to the airport for a disbaled passenger?

The journey to London Gatwick is designed to be as accessible as possible for disabled passengers. Most public transport operators provide support for passengers with additional needs.

You can find more information on our pages for Train travel and Coach and bus services.

If you are Arriving by car, Blue Badge spaces are available in our car parks. These are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and additional assistance can also be arranged if needed.

Do you offer a parking discount for Blue Badge holders?

Yes, if you're a Blue Badge holder, you can use the Premium Short Stay car park at the standard Short Stay rate for up to four hours. When you arrive, press the ‘Assistance’ button at the entry barrier. On exit, press the intercom again so our team can apply the Short Stay rate before you pay. Please note, if you stay longer than four hours, the full Premium Parking rate will be charged for the entire duration.

While we don’t offer further parking discounts, all Official London Gatwick Parking car parks have clearly marked Blue Badge bays close to terminal access points. These spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

To find out more about accessible parking options, including drop-off exemptions and maps, visit our Blue Badge parking page.

What is a Hidden Disability (Sunflower) Lanyard and how do I order one?

The Hidden Disability (Sunflower) Lanyard is a discreet way to let staff know you have a hidden disability and may need extra help, time or understanding. Staff are trained to recognise the lanyard, but it doesn't reveal any personal detailsm, so if you have specific needs, just let a team member know.

You can pick up a lanyard for free at any of our Special Assistance Receptions, even if you haven't booked Special Assistance. You're welcome to keep it and use it again in the future.

Learn more about the lanyard and other available support on our Special Assistance page.

How do I give feedback about Special Assistance?

We welcome your feedback on Special Assistance, whether it's a compliment, a concern, or a request. You can share your experience using our online Feedback form.

For quick answers, you may also find what you need in our FAQs or on our Special Assistance page.

Do you have services for passengers with autism or hidden disabilities?

Yes. London Gatwick offers services for autistic passengers and anyone with a hidden disability. Please go to the Special Assistance desks located in the check-in areas where our trained staff will be able to help you and provide you with a free Hidden Disability (Sunflower) lanyard. Simply wear it during your journey and our staff will understand that you might need a little extra support or patience.

The North Terminal features the UK's first airport sensory room, designed as a calm, soothing space ideal for autistic passengers or those with sensory sensitivities. It's free to use, just request access via the Special Assistance desk after security in the North Terminal.

Do I need to pre-book Special Assistance?

Yes, please contact your airline at least 48 hours before you fly if you need Special Assistance due to a disability or mobility difficulty.

Learn more about Special Assistance at London Gatwick.

Do you have services for passengers with special needs?

Yes, we offer a range of services to support passengers with special needs. If you've pre-booked Special Assistance through your airline, you'll find everything you need to know about what to expect on our Special Assistance page.

If you haven't booked in advance, you can still go to one of our Special Assistance desks when you arrive. We'll do our best to help, though passengers who've booked ahead will be prioritised.

How does Special Assistance support passengers with reduced mobility (PRM)?

If you've booked Special Assistance at London Gatwick, there are dedicated drop-off bays for Blue Badge holders on both terminal forecourts. Nearby, our Special Assistance reception opens daily from 04:00, where trained staff are ready to support you through the airport.

We offer tailored help whether you're using your own mobility aid or one we provide. Assistance includes help through security, wayfinding, boarding, and accessible facilities.

For the best experience, book assistance at least 48 hours before you travel. Find out more about our Special Assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility.

Can I get Special Assistance between the car parks and the terminal?

All of our car parks are fully compliant with the Equality Act 2010. However, if you need an extra helping hand, Special Assistance phones can be found within our Short Stay car parks, as well as close to the Long Stay shuttle bus stop at the terminal. More information can be found on our Special Assistance page.

Blue Badge holders being dropped off in a designated drop-off zone must pre register to avoid having to pay drop-off charges. This includes Blue Badge holders arriving by taxi.

How do I book Special Assistance at London Gatwick Airport?

To book Special Assistance, please contact your airline or travel agent in advance. Under European law, your airline is responsible for providing assistance on board the aircraft, while we provide support while you're at the airport.

To make sure we have the right help and equipment ready, always book Special Assistance in advance through your airline or travel agent, especially if you need a wheelchair. If you haven't booked ahead, you can still request help at one of the Special Assistance desks or help points available in both terminals.

Find out more about Special Assistance at London Gatwick.

Where are the Blue Badge parking spaces at London Gatwick?

Blue Badge parking bays are located in all car parks at London Gatwick, in both the North and South Terminals. Visit the relevant Parking pages for more information. Please note Blue Badge parking spaces are subject to availability on a first-come-first-served basis.

What time do the Special Assistance areas open?

The Special Assistance receptions open at 04:00. If you arrive before that time, the desks will not be manned, and you will have to wait until the service is open.

Where do Special Assistance passengers pick-up their bags in baggage reclaim?

Special Assistance is available in the baggage reclaim area at London Gatwick. A staff member can help you collect your luggage from the belt, but you'll need to identify your bags and confirm they're yours.

Find out more about Special Assistance at London Gatwick.

What should I do if I need to take my Blue Badge abroad after parking?

If you're likely to need your Blue Badge whilst travelling, taking it with you isn't a problem. Park up as normal and call 0800 678 3353 or use the intercom button on the payment machines, and NCP will validate the Blue Badge use for you.

Where can I find detailed accessibility information about the airport?

We have partnered with AccessAble, the UK's leading accessibility information provider, to create detailed access guides for the airport. The guides cover the terminals, car parks, and train station to make your journey as easy and enjoyable as possible. The guides may also help you make decisions about the type of assistance you might require when you travel through London Gatwick. They can be found throughout the website.

Who is Special Assistance for?

Special Assistance is for anyone who may need extra help when travelling through London Gatwick. This includes people with mobility challenges, sensory impairments, or hidden disabilities like Alzheimer's or ADHD.

If you think support would help, please book in advance through your airline. You can learn more about who it's for and how it works on our Special Assistance page.
If you can't find the information you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us.