- Flight Disruptions
- Gatwick Airport issued fuel shortage alert over weekend
Gatwick Airport issued fuel shortage alert over weekend
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Checked by Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Last updated on August 4, 2026
Disruption overview
Over the weekend, Gatwick Airport (LGW) warned airlines that a jet fuel shortage could disrupt flights during a busy summer travel period. An alert issued on 2 August 2026 said the supply problem may last for the next 2 days. However a spokesperson for Gatwick has confirmed that the issue has now been fixed.
Disruption details
Gatwick Airport (LGW) in London, United Kingdom, issued an alert on 2 August 2026, warning airlines that an immediate jet fuel shortage could disrupt flights during one of the busiest parts of the summer travel season.
The alert said the supply problem could continue for the next 2 days, however a spokesperson for the airport confirmed on 3 August that the issue was fixed, and refueling was operating normally.
Airlines were told to have pilots take on as much fuel as possible before flying to Gatwick, rather than depending on normal refueling after landing. A follow-up emergency notice warned that the airport's fuel supply could be disrupted. If that workaround isn't enough, aircraft may need more time on the ground, which can quickly create delays across a busy schedule.
The issue was linked to a technical problem at the external fuel farm that feeds Gatwick, which has now been fixed.
Gatwick Airport remained open, and no cancellations were announced. Even so, the warning comes at the height of the summer getaway, when high passenger volumes can make even a short operational problem spread quickly. It also follows a separate water supply outage the previous weekend that temporarily affected terminal facilities.
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights
When your flight's disrupted, you may be entitled to various forms of care and compensation under UK 261 and other applicable laws.
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. You may also get a full refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Care and assistance
Your airline must provide food and refreshments if your journey is delayed more than a few hours.
Accommodation
If you are away from home and your journey is delayed overnight, the airline must offer you accommodation and transportation to it.
Communication
Under UK 261 you are entitled to 2 phone calls or emails if your journey is delayed over 1 hour. No compensation when a disruption is caused by extraordinary circumstances, as this appears to be.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Summary
Disruption
Unknown
Cause
Other
Status
Past disruption
Compensation
Not eligible for compensation
Airports affected
London Gatwick Airport
Cities affected
London
Countries affected
United Kingdom
Start date
2026-08-02
End date
2026-08-03
Checked by
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated
August 4, 2026
What to do if your flight is delayed, canceled, or overbooked
If you're traveling to, from, or within the European Union, here's what you should do when you experience a disruption.
Gather evidence that your flight was delayed, canceled, or overbooked.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the disruption and the reason behind it.
Request an alternative flight to your destination — or a refund if you no longer wish to travel.
Make a note of the arrival time at your final destination.
Ask the airline to provide vouchers for meals and refreshments.
Avoid signing documents or accepting offers that may waive your passenger rights.
If an overnight stay is required, ask the airline to provide accommodation.
Save receipts for any additional expenses caused by the disruption.
