Gatwick Airport chaos as runway temporarily closed and flights diverted with fire engines seen rushing to scene

GATWICK airport closed a runway for urgent repairs this afternoon - plunging thousands into travel chaos.

Fire engines charged onto the tarmac as four flights were diverted to airports as far away as Essex amid the disruption.

Long lists of delayed flights could also be found on the Gatwick Airport online departures and the arrivals board amid the carnage.

But passengers say they weren't told a thing, leaving many worried and confused.

Aaron Boyle, from Knebworth, Herts., told his plane circled above the airport before being sent to Southend in Essex.

He said "[We weren't] told too much.

"Now landed at Southend to refuel and we hope to return to Gatwick. We were told news and we are here for an hour due to this!"

Gatwick have since confirmed the main runway was shut for emergency repairs to the runway.

A Gatwick spokesperson said: "The main runway was closed for a short time today (16 August) due to emergency repairs. Four flights were diverted.

"The runway is now open and operating as normal. Safety is our top priority and we apologise to passengers for any inconvenience."

Gatwick is now open as normal.

Coby Benson, Flight Delay Compensation Solicitor at specialists said those impacted at Gatwick could claim up to £520 if they are delayed by more than three hours.

He added: "Airlines have a duty of care to provide things such as refreshments and even overnight accommodation if the delay is long enough.

“The circumstances where compensation may not be due include if it can be considered ‘freak’ or ‘wholly exceptional’, and therefore deemed an ‘extraordinary circumstance’.

“You are always entitled to either a free replacement flight or a full refund on your ticket, so it’s important to know your rights."