Investigation underway after body found in aircraft landing gear at London Gatwick

A major investigation has been launched after the body of a man was discovered in the landing gear compartment of an Air Arabia Maroc Airbus A320 aircraft (registration CN-NMH) that had arrived at London Gatwick Airport from Morocco.

Emergency services were called after the discovery was made on Air Arabia flight 3O101 arriving from Tangier at around 10:15 (UTC+1) on Tuesday. Sussex Police have confirmed that a formal investigation is now underway, with support from airport authorities and the UK coroner service.

The airport stated that its teams are assisting investigators and expressed condolences to those affected, while Air Arabia has been contacted for comment.

Authorities have not yet released details on the identity of the deceased or the circumstances surrounding the incident. Early reporting indicates the case is being treated as unexplained, with further forensic and aviation security investigations expected.

The discovery comes amid a small number of similar historical cases involving aircraft stowaways, including previous incidents at UK airports, prompting renewed attention on airport perimeter security and the extreme risks associated with unauthorised aircraft access.