Gatwick Airport: Chaos as passengers evacuated after fire alarm as emergency services rush to north terminal

PASSENGERS have been evacuated from Gatwick's North Terminal as emergency crews rush to the scene following a fire alarm.

Pictures from the airport show crowds of holidaymakers huddled outside of the building amid the chaos.

Passengers took to Twitter to describe the large queues, and that they had been told to expect delays after the evacuation.

One wrote: "All of the North Terminal departures have been evacuated.

"We've been told delays aren't confirmed but should be expected."

Another disgruntled traveller added: "Great start to the holiday.

"Fire alarm in Gatwick departures so massive delay/backlog to get through security."

A Gatwick Airport spokesperson said: "London Gatwick’s North Terminal was evacuated for a short time this morning due to a fire alarm being activated.

"As always, safety and security are our number one priority.

"We apologise to passengers for any inconvenience."

Police remain on site monitoring the situation.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has been contacted for comment.