Hundreds of people arriving into Gatwick Airport’s south terminal have faced long delays in picking up their luggage, with many being told to go home without it.
An airport spokesman said the overnight disruption was caused by “resourcing issues” involving baggage handlers Swissport.
“Due to resourcing issues with the baggage handlers Swissport there were overnight issues and delays with passengers’ luggage,” he said.
“Gatwick provided extra staff to help the airlines and their baggage handlers improve their service, as well as providing welfare and water for passengers waiting in the baggage areas, but we are sorry for the delays they faced.
“Baggage operations are now returning to normal.”
Passengers of several airlines have been advised to go home without their luggage.
Officials at the airport informed passengers of British Airways flights who had waited more than an hour on their bags being returned, and those on Monarch, Thomas Cook or Thompson flights who had been waiting 90 minutes or more, that their luggage would be forwarded to their home address.
It is understood easyJet passengers have also been affected but had not been advised to leave without their baggage.
Some passengers took to social media sites to voice their frustrations over the delays – some up to five hours.
Julian C Adams tweeted: “Such shocking service at Gatwick airport! Waiting for the arrival of baggage for over 2 hours now! #shouldhaveflowntoheathrow.”
Sophie Wood tweeted: “3 hrs in #gatwick baggage handling … Apparent Lack of staff appalling shambles #Gatwick#idiots.”
Oliver Webb wrote: “@2 hour delays at #gatwick for baggage reclaim. #Swissport to blame apparently. No info from airport staff. Rubbish.”
Gatwick Passengers Suffer Baggage Delays
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