How we operate
Running a successful airport like Gatwick is a complex business. Find out who does what at our airport.
We work in collaboration with many other organisations to deliver the high quality service our passengers have come to expect.
Airlines
There's no airport without an airline and we have around 45 airlines operating at Gatwick. Airlines are responsible for checking passengers in delivering hold baggage to its final destination, cargo, providing and fuelling aircraft, boarding passengers, passenger safety and on-board catering.
See who flies where from Gatwick
Airport Coordination Limited (ACL)
ACL is an independent organisation responsible for allocating slots and other data collection at Gatwick Airport. They also operate at other UK airports.
Air Navigation Services (ANS)
ANS is responsible for aerodrome air traffic control at Gatwick Airport from when the aircraft leaves its stand to when it reaches 4000 ft in the air. ANS also manages air traffic engineering services, emergency and alerting services, and meteorological services.
Border Force
Border Force is responsible for securing the United Kingdom borders and controlling migration in the United Kingdom. At Gatwick it is responsible for managing passport control for arriving passengers and deciding who can enter the country. This service also deals with any deportation or asylum issues.
Find out more about Border Force
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA)
Controls all flight paths and aircraft routes at UK airports, and regulates airlines, airports and NATS air traffic services. The CAA also sets airport charges at the London airports.
Commercial services
Individual businesses and services located at Gatwick to help improve your airport experience. These include shops, restaurants, car parking and currency exchange.
Department for Transport (DfT)
The DfT's role is to oversee the delivery of a reliable, safe and secure transport system that responds efficiently to the needs of individuals and business whilst safeguarding our environment.
Department for Transport website
HM Revenue & Customs
Controls the import and export of goods, and prevents illegal activities such as drugs, tobacco and alcohol trafficking and trades in endangered species and child pornography.
Visit HM Revenue & Customs website
NATS
Looks after air traffic control and management, ensuring aircraft flying in UK airspace and over the eastern part of the North Atlantic are safe. NATS takes responsibility for an aircraft from the time is reaches 4000 ft to when it leaves UK air space.
