Flight and airline FAQs
We've answered the most frequently asked questions about flights and airlines below and also include information about your passenger rights in times of disruption. If your question isn't answered here, check with your airline.
For live flight information direct to your phone, use our brand new intelligent chatbot, G.A.I.L. Simply click here to open the assistant in Facebook Messenger.
Which terminal does my airline operate from?
Flights resume from our South Terminal on Sunday 27 March. Check which terminal your flight departs from with your airline before you travel.
What time does my flight arrive?
Go to our live flight arrivals.
When does my flight leave?
Go to our flight departures.
How can I get updates on my flight direct to my phone?
Download the Official Gatwick App for iOS and Android and add your flight to get live updates straight to your phone. You can add flights up to nine days out from the departure date.
Alternatively, you can use our Gatwick chatbot, GAIL, who is ready to answer any questions you may have on flight information. Simply click here to open the assistant in Facebook Messenger.
How long before my flight do I need to check in?
- Long-haul: check-in opens four hours before scheduled departures
- European: check-in opens three hours before
- UK and Ireland: check-in opens two hours before
We advise that you arrive at least two hours before your flight to allow plenty of extra time to check-in and pass through security.
How many bags am I allowed?
You should check with your airline or on your ticket for their on-board baggage rules, but for general guidance – in particular about our rules on hand baggage – go to our check-in and security pages.
How do I book special assistance?
Go to our special assistance pages for more information, but please book through your airline or tour operator where possible.
What ID do I need to check in?
If you are travelling internationally, a valid passport is normally required. For some countries your passport will need to be valid for at least six months after your intended return and you may also need a visa.
Before travelling you should check your destination country's entry requirements and allow enough time to renew your passport and/or apply for a visa at the relevant embassy or consulate.
Passports do get lost and although it will take time getting a replacement, you can make life easier by taking photocopies with you. It may also be worth carrying additional photographic ID separate from your passport. For UK citizens – if your passport is lost or stolen you must report it to the UK Passport Service by calling 0871 875 6859.
All travellers to the US wanting to travel on the visa waiver programme now need travel authorisation in advance, in addition to having a machine readable passport. Please complete the US Department of Homeland Security’s Electronic System for Travel Authorisation in advance online.
What should I do if my flight into Gatwick is cancelled?
You should contact your airline – see airline contacts
What are my passenger rights?
Mostly flights and trips go smoothly, however there are occasions when something may not go to plan, for example, your flight is substantially delayed or cancelled or your bags do not arrive at your destination with you. For any of these issues, in the first instance, please contact your airline directly. To find out more information about your rights as a passenger if you are departing from or arriving at any EU airport on a flight operated by an EU airline, then your please visit the CAA website where all your rights are explained in detail.
How do I book a flight?
Your first stop should be our book a flight page. Alternatively you can contact your airline.
