All flights at London Gatwick Airport were grounded this afternoon after a departing aircraft, believed to be a Boeing 787, developed a technical issue that closed the runway. Aircraft tracking website FlightRadar24 showed the plane on the runway surrounded by emergency vehicles.
Runway closed after technical issue
A London Gatwick Airport spokesperson confirmed the disruption: "Due to a technical issue with a departing aircraft, our runway is currently closed. Our teams are working to move the aircraft and resume operations as quickly as possible. As always, safety and security is our number one priority."
According to the Daily Star, the aircraft is believed to be a Boeing 787. The Express reports that the plane appears to be a Norse aircraft bound for New York. The runway closure led to the suspension of all flights at the airport.
Diversions and traveller advice
Other flights are reportedly being diverted to Luton or Stansted airports. Travellers flying in or out of Gatwick are being advised to check their flight status for updates.
The incident occurred on 4 September 2026, with reports indicating the aircraft was "surrounded by 20 emergency vehicles" on the runway. The airport has not yet provided a timeline for when operations might resume.
