Airport Tips & Quick Reference Guide to London Gatwick International Airport - LGW

Gatwick Airport Terminals

All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides, since 1999.

London Gatwick Airport (LGW) – Terminals Guide

London Gatwick Airport (LGW) is one of the busiest airports in the United Kingdom, located around 45 km south of central London. It serves millions of passengers annually and operates with two main terminals: North Terminal and South Terminal. Gatwick’s history dates back to the 1930s, with the iconic Beehive terminal opening in 1935. The South Terminal followed in 1958, while the North Terminal was added in 1983 as part of a major expansion.

Today, both terminals are modern, well-equipped and efficiently designed, handling a wide range of airlines and destinations. Although physically separate, they are connected by a free automated shuttle that operates 24/7.

Terminal Map


Gatwick International Airport Terminal Map

The North and South Terminals are only connected landside. If you change terminals after security, you must go through security again.


Terminal Overview

Terminal Main Use Airlines Access
South Terminal Short-haul & low-cost easyJet, BA, Ryanair Direct rail station
North Terminal Long-haul & premium Emirates, Qatar Airways Shuttle connection


South Terminal

The South Terminal is the original terminal and remains the busiest at Gatwick. It is directly connected to the airport’s railway station, making it the most convenient option for passengers arriving by train.

  • Level 0: Arrivals, baggage claim, transport
  • Level 1: Check-in, security and departures
  • Gates: Includes satellite pier (31–38)


North Terminal

The North Terminal is more modern and handles a large share of long-haul flights. It features spacious areas, premium lounges and a quieter environment compared to the South Terminal.

  • Level 0: Arrivals and transport
  • Level 1: Check-in area
  • Level 2: Security and departure gates
  • Gates: Pier with gates 101–113


Airlines & Terminal Distribution

Terminal Airline Type Examples
South Low-cost & European easyJet, Ryanair, BA
North Long-haul & international Emirates, Qatar Airways


Terminal Transfers

The North and South Terminals are connected by a free automated shuttle train operating every few minutes, with a journey time of approximately 2 minutes.

Always check your terminal before arriving. Airlines like easyJet and TUI operate from both terminals.

Facilities & Services

  • Free Wi-Fi throughout both terminals
  • Duty-free shopping and restaurants
  • VIP lounges and business areas
  • Family facilities and baby care rooms
  • Accessibility services for PRM passengers


Popular Routes from Gatwick

Destination Duration Airlines
Barcelona 2h 15m easyJet, BA
New York 7h 45m Virgin Atlantic
Dubai 7h 15m Emirates
Amsterdam 1h 15m easyJet, KLM
Paris 1h 10m easyJet, Air France
Rome 2h 30m easyJet, BA
Orlando 9h 30m Virgin Atlantic
Edinburgh 1h 15m easyJet, BA


Location Map


Gatwick Airport Walking Tour Video