Train lines reopen but delays of up to 30 minutes persist after trackside fire near Gatwick Airport

From the Newshound archive · first published 29 September 2026 · last updated 30 September 2026.

A trackside fire between Gatwick Airport and Purley caused widespread disruption to morning services, suspending all Gatwick Express trains and triggering heavy cancellations and delays on Thameslink and Southern routes. Network Rail reported that the blaze had not been brought under control by 11:00 BST, cautioning that such fires endanger signalling equipment, power systems and track infrastructure. Passengers were told to allow at least 30 extra minutes for their journeys, with disruption expected to continue until at least 11:45 BST.

Gatwick Express services were suspended in both directions, and affected passengers were told to seek alternative means of travel.

Ticket holders may travel at no extra cost on Great Western Railway services between Gatwick Airport and Redhill, and on Southern and Thameslink services between Gatwick Airport and East Croydon.

Network Rail's confirmation that the fire remained active deepened fears of further damage to signalling and power infrastructure along the affected corridor.