London Gatwick Airport (LGW) Security Wait Times & Checkpoint Details
Usually, the Gatwick security wait times are 5 to 25 minutes, depending on the number of departing flights, time of day, staffing levels, and additional security checks. The wait times may increase from 35 to 45 minutes during the holidays, Christmas, Easter, summer vacation, early morning, and weekends. However, enrolling in Fast Track Security services can help to skip the normal security queue and clear the security check even faster within 1-2 minutes.
Current Average Gatwick Airport Security Wait Times
During the non-peak hours, the security wait times are less than 5 minutes at both terminals. Fast Track Security service members can expect the wait times to be between 1 and 2 minutes. It’s better to arrive early and check the wait times at the digital screen throughout the terminals.
Average Wait Time at Gatwick Airport
The average Gatwick security wait times usually range from 10 to 20 minutes. However, during busy early morning hours, i.e., 5 am and 8 am, lines can be longer, and wait times may increase to around 30 minutes.
Gatwick Airport Security Check Points Operating Hours
Both the South and North Terminals have separate security checkpoints to reduce overall Gatwick security waiting times. The standard security checkpoints remain open for 24 hours. But the Fast Track Security Lanes may have limited hours.
Passport Control Wait Times at Gatwick Airport
Gatwick passport control wait times and customs usually lie between 10 and 30 minutes. During non-peak hours, the average wait is often around 4 to 7 minutes. However, at busy times such as early morning or evening, or when many flights arrive together, waits can increase to 45-60 minutes depending on passenger traffic. An eGate pass holder can clear immigration in 3 to 5 minutes.
After immigration, take the train for the airport transfer from Gatwick to London for connecting flights.
Fast Track Security and Passport Control at LGW
Fast Track security helps to skip the long queue and reduce the LGW security wait times and passport control times. Passengers with premium tickets may receive Fast Track access automatically.
Booking Fast Track Security along with the Gatwick airport parking promo code allows quicker access through security and faster entry into the departure lounge.
Factors Affecting Gatwick Security Wait Times
Here are some situations that can increase waiting times at Gatwick Airport:
Summer holidays, Christmas, Easter, and bank holidays often reduce wait times.
Early morning departure usually causes long queues at security checkpoints.
Random bag inspections or suspicious items can slow the screening process.
Airport staffing levels may affect how quickly security lanes move.
How to Check Current Security Wait Times at Gatwick?
Check the updated security wait times through:
Official London Gatwick Airport website
Airline app or website
Flight tracking apps
Airport information screens
How to Reduce Gatwick Airport Security Waiting Time
Planning can help to reduce the Gatwick wait times. Here are some practical tips:
Reach the airport 2 hours before domestic flights and 4 hours before international flights for check-in, bag drop, and security screening.
Keep the boarding pass ready for scanning at checkpoints.
Put the laptops, tablets, and large electronics for separate screening.
Try to book a rental car at Gatwick Airport to reach the terminal early.
Pack the liquid in a clear plastic bag under 100ml.
Avoid excessive metal accessories, belts, or boots that may trigger additional checks.
Enroll in the Fast Track Security Screening program to reduce Gatwick Airport wait times during busy travel periods.
End Notes!
Usually, Gatwick security wait times range between 5 and 25 minutes, depending on travel demand, flight schedules, and seasonal traffic. The wait times can increase up to 45 minutes during vacations and busy periods. Arriving early, preparing liquids correctly, checking in online, and considering Fast Track security during peak times can help to reduce the wait times.
