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 I request to be searched privately when I go through security?

Yes, you can request a private search if you have a valid reason, whether it’s for yourself or your hand baggage. This might be due to a medical condition, cultural sensitivity, or simply a preference not to be searched in a public area.

Just let a member of the security team know, and we’ll arrange it for you. All private searches are witnessed by an additional Security Officer, and you’re welcome to have a travelling companion present if you wish. For more details, visit our Security page.

What advice is there for transgender passengers going through security?

All our staff and passengers have the right to be treated with dignity and professionalism regardless of the gender they identify with. For full details on advice for transgender passengers at check-in and security please visit our Security advice page.

Can I escort my friend or family through security if I am not boarding a flight?

It is not possible to go through security without a flight booking and boarding pass.

What is the best way for me to get an engagement ring through security?

When travelling with an engagement ring in your hand luggage, leave it in its box but do not wrap it. Put it in a shoe or somewhere that is safe and secure. In the event you do get asked by security to be searched, anyone can request a private search for either themselves or for their hand baggage. Just ask a member of staff and we will arrange this for you.

Do I have to remove shoes, belts, jewellery or piercings before going through security?

You don’t have to take out piercings at security, but taking off metal jewellery, belts, shoes, and other metal items can help you pass through the scanners more smoothly and reduce the chance of needing additional checks.

We recommend placing any high-value items you remove, like watches or jewellery, inside your hand baggage to keep them secure. If you’re ever unsure, just ask one of our Security Officers. For more tips, visit our Security page.

What should I do at security if I have a pace maker, hip replacement or medical implant?

If you have a pacemaker or any medical device that could be affected by metal detectors, please let our Security Officers know before you reach the screening area. You should also carry a medical card that confirms you have a sensitive device.

If you have a hip or joint replacement, or another type of metal implant, it's likely to trigger the metal detector. If that happens, you’ll be asked to undergo a manual search by a Security Officer. You don’t need to bring proof of the implant, but giving our team a heads-up can help the process go more smoothly.

For more information, see our Security page.

Can I refuse to go through the security scanner?

You have the right to refuse to go through our security scanners. However, your reasoning will be questioned by a member of staff for security reasons. The alternative can be a body search carried out in a private search area.

If you can't find the information you're looking for, please don't hesitate to contact us.