Book your private flight from London Gatwick

Private jet charter Gatwick: what you need to know

London Gatwick (LGW/EGKK) is the UK’s second-busiest airport, located 45 km south of central London. It features a primary runway of 3,317 meters, capable of accommodating most private jets. While Gatwick operates 24/7, private aviation faces significant constraints, including mandatory slot coordination and a night curfew from 23:00 to 06:00. Signature Flight Support LGW provides dedicated FBO services, including a VIP lounge, on-site customs, and ground handling. Private Jets Connect specializes in navigating these complexities to ensure a smooth, discreet, and frictionless experience for clients requiring Gatwick, or advising on more suitable alternatives for private jet travel to London.

Airport History

Gatwick’s aviation history dates back to the 1920s, initially as an aerodrome. It officially opened as a commercial airport in 1936, featuring a unique circular terminal building. Post-World War II, Gatwick underwent significant redevelopment, reopening in 1958 as London’s second major airport. It pioneered the ‘pier’ system for passenger boarding and has continuously expanded to become a vital international hub. Despite its commercial focus, Gatwick has always maintained facilities for general aviation, adapting to the evolving demands of private air travel.

How to access by private jet

Accessing London Gatwick by private jet requires meticulous planning due to its high commercial traffic and slot coordination requirements. Private Jets Connect manages the entire process, from securing necessary slots well in advance to coordinating with Signature Flight Support LGW. Upon arrival, clients benefit from VIP welcome services, dedicated ground handling, and seamless transfers. While Gatwick’s operational costs for private aviation can be higher than dedicated business aviation airports, its strategic location can be advantageous for specific itineraries, such as connecting with commercial flights or accessing South England. For most private jet travelers to London, alternatives like Biggin Hill (EGKB), Luton (EGGW), or Stansted (EGSS) often offer greater flexibility and efficiency.

Booking during major events

Booking a private jet to Gatwick during major events in London or the surrounding areas demands even earlier planning. High demand for slots, coupled with Gatwick’s inherent capacity limitations, means that availability can be extremely restricted. Private Jets Connect advises clients to submit their requests several weeks, if not months, in advance for events such as Wimbledon, Royal Ascot, or major conferences. Our coordination team works closely with Signature Flight Support and air traffic control to secure the best possible slot times, while also providing transparent guidance on potential operational challenges and recommending alternative airports that may offer better access and fewer restrictions during peak event periods.

Practical information

• ICAO/IATA Code: EGKK / LGW
• Distance to City Center: 45 km from central London
• Transfer Time: Approximately 50–70 minutes to central London
• Runway Length: 3,317 meters
• Operational Hours: 24/7 commercial operations, but private jet access is subject to slot availability and a night curfew.
• Curfew: 23:00-06:00 for general aviation.
• Customs: On-site customs and immigration services available at Signature Flight Support LGW.
• Slots: Mandatory for all aircraft, including private jets, with limited availability for general aviation.
• FBOs: Signature Flight Support LGW