Confusion and disorder unfolded at Gatwick Airport’s South Terminal this morning, following the sounding of a fire alarm that led to a full evacuation. Passengers reported a lack of coordination and information as they were hurriedly directed out of the terminal.

The evacuation began abruptly after the fire alarm was triggered, with passengers taking to social media to express their confusion and frustration. Reports from the scene describe a chaotic environment, with little to no guidance from airport staff on how to proceed safely.

One passenger, Ellie, tweeted, “@Gatwick_Airport fire alarm sounded and the whole terminal evacuated! Any idea what’s going on?” Similarly, Adam noted the disarray among the airport staff, saying, “Everyone at Gatwick South being sent back through departures. Staff saying all flights not departing.” He later added details of the evacuation process, highlighting the lack of coordination: “Fire alarm at Gatwick South terminal. Evacuated all passengers from Airside, no staff know what’s going on. No coordination from anyone at the airport. Fun day.”

Another passenger, Ryan, criticized the evacuation procedures, remarking, “Incredible. A fire alarm at @Gatwick_Airport and staff are as clueless as guests as to the procedures on how to safely exit. No fire Marshalls, and signage pointing the wrong way. Eventually found a way out. Awful.”

The incident reportedly started around half an hour ago, and the cause of the fire alarm has yet to be determined. Gatwick Airport has not yet issued a formal statement regarding the evacuation or the circumstances leading up to the alarm.

This disruption comes at a busy time for the airport, affecting hundreds of passengers and numerous flights. Travellers at Gatwick South Terminal are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on their flight statuses as the situation develops.