Gatwick North Terminal Arrival and Departure: A Comprehensive Guide

Gatwick Airport, one of the UK’s busiest international airports, is divided into two terminals: North and South. While both terminals serve a significant number of flights, the North Terminal is renowned for its modern facilities, excellent transport connections, and smooth passenger experience for both arrivals and departures. Whether you are arriving after a long flight or preparing for a new journey, here is a detailed guide to navigating Gatwick North Terminal for both arrival and departure.

Arrival at Gatwick North Terminal

Upon landing at Gatwick North Terminal, passengers can expect a well-organized and efficient process, from disembarkation to baggage claim and beyond. Here's what you can expect during your arrival:

1. Disembarking and Immigration Control

After your flight lands, you will be guided to the arrivals hall. If you're arriving from an international destination, the first step is immigration control. Depending on your nationality and the type of passport you hold, you will either need to present your passport to a border officer or, for UK and EU citizens, you may use the e-gates, which offer a quicker clearance process.

Pro Tip: Always have your passport, visa (if applicable), and any other necessary documentation ready to avoid delays.

2. Baggage Claim

Once through immigration, you’ll proceed to the baggage reclaim area. Large screens throughout the terminal will display the flight number and the assigned carousel for your luggage. Gatwick North Terminal features several baggage carousels, minimizing wait times and ensuring passengers collect their bags in a timely manner.

3. Customs Control

After picking up your luggage, you will go through customs. The airport has a straightforward customs process, and you can either go through the green channel (if you have nothing to declare) or the red channel (if you need to declare items). Customs officers may randomly check baggage, but the process is generally quick.

4. Arrival Services

Gatwick North Terminal is designed to be highly accessible for travelers. There are several services available to make your arrival experience comfortable and easy:

• Information Desks: Available throughout the terminal, these are helpful for any queries regarding transportation, facilities, or directions.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available to all travelers throughout the terminal, so you can easily stay connected.
• Currency Exchange & ATMs: If you need local currency or wish to withdraw cash, there are currency exchange counters and ATMs in the arrivals area.
• Shops and Dining: There are a variety of retail options, including duty-free stores, high street brands, and boutiques. Additionally, there are plenty of dining options, ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants.

5. Transportation Links

One of the major advantages of arriving at Gatwick North Terminal is its excellent transportation links. Travelers can choose from various options to reach their final destination:

• Train Services: The Gatwick Express, Thameslink, and Southern Rail all operate from the North Terminal. The Gatwick Express offers a fast, direct service to London Victoria station in approximately 30 minutes.
• Taxis and Private Hire: A taxi rank is available right outside the terminal, and private hire vehicles can be pre-booked or arranged at the designated desk inside the terminal.
• Buses and Coaches: Numerous bus and coach services depart from the North Terminal to various destinations across the UK.
• Car Hire: If you prefer to drive, several car rental agencies are located in the terminal or nearby, offering a wide range of vehicles.

Departure from Gatwick North Terminal

Departing from Gatwick North Terminal is a straightforward process, designed to ensure that travelers have a seamless and stress-free experience. Here’s what you can expect when you’re preparing for your flight:

1. Check-In

For international and domestic flights, check-in can be done at the airline counters or via self-service kiosks, where available. Most airlines also offer online check-in, allowing you to skip the check-in counter altogether and proceed directly to bag drop or security.

Pro Tip: Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a short-haul flight and 3 hours for long-haul flights to ensure you have ample time for check-in, security, and other procedures.

2. Security Check

Once you’ve checked in, the next step is passing through security. Gatwick North Terminal has modern, efficient security measures. Make sure you adhere to the 100ml liquid limit for hand luggage, and place all electronics larger than a smartphone in the trays provided. The security team will guide you through the process.

3. Shops and Dining After Security

After passing through security, you’ll enter the departure lounge, which offers an extensive range of facilities:

• Duty-Free Shopping: Gatwick North Terminal is home to several large duty-free shops offering luxury goods, cosmetics, alcohol, and souvenirs.
• Retail Stores: High-street brands and local boutiques can be found in the terminal, allowing you to shop for everything from fashion to books.
• Dining Options: Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sit-down meal, the terminal has a variety of dining options, including cafes, fast food outlets, and restaurants offering everything from British fare to international cuisine.

4. Lounges

If you’re looking for a more comfortable place to relax before your flight, Gatwick North Terminal offers several premium lounges that provide a quieter and more luxurious environment, complete with complimentary snacks, drinks, and comfortable seating.

5. Boarding Gate and Flight Information

Before heading to your gate, be sure to monitor the flight information screens for updates on boarding times and gate assignments. Most of the gates in the North Terminal are just a short walk from the main departure area, and clear signage will direct you.

6. Special Assistance

For passengers who require assistance, Gatwick North Terminal offers a range of services. These include support with check-in, security, and boarding. To ensure a smooth experience, it’s recommended that you inform your airline of your needs in advance.

Parking at Gatwick North Terminal

If you're dropping someone off or parking your own vehicle, there are multiple parking options at Gatwick North Terminal:

• Short Stay Parking: Located directly opposite the terminal, this is the most convenient option for quick drop-offs or short-term parking.
• Long Stay Parking: For longer trips, you can opt for the long-stay parking lot, which offers cheaper rates and a free shuttle bus to the terminal.
• Meet & Greet Services: For ultimate convenience, the meet and greet service allows you to drop off your car at the terminal entrance, and the valet will park it for you.

Taxi Service at Gatwick Airport:

Crystal Cars East Grinstead provide Taxi Service to Gatwick north terminal and taxi service from Gatwick north Terminal. Give us a call on 01342300300 or book online at www.eastgrinsteadcars.co.uk

Conclusion

Whether you’re arriving at or departing from Gatwick North Terminal, the airport’s modern amenities, excellent transport links, and efficient procedures make the experience as smooth as possible. From the easy immigration and baggage claim process to the array of shopping, dining, and transport options available, Gatwick North Terminal caters to the needs of all types of travelers. By planning ahead and following the steps outlined, your experience at Gatwick North Terminal will be both pleasant and stress-free.