The tragic accident caused long delays in the area including on the M23 and A23 as police interviewed the coach's 40 passengers about how the accident happened before allowing them to continue their journeys and flights from the airport.

The collision occurred on the North Terminal roundabout on Airport Way just after 1.30pm on Friday (September 4) leaving the coach on top of the woman's Ford Ka.

She was declared dead at the scene. She is believed to have come from South Wales. The coach's driver was taken to hospital suffering from shock.

Police apologised for the lengthy delays for motorists.

Inspector Keith Ellis from Sussex Police's Road Policing Unit added: "We must not lose sight of the fact that, sadly, a woman died and it is essential that her death is fully investigated to meet the needs of the coroner and any subsequent court case that may arise."

He said recovery of the vehicles was particularly complex and repairs also had to be made to the road and crash barrier.

Any witnesses should call police on 0845 60 70 999 quoting Operation Tilstone.