Gatwick bosses insist safety and security are their top priorities following claims that a sacked worker later died fighting for the Taliban.

Yasir Khan had "airside" access to planes on the tarmac as he delivered airline meals for five months immediately before the September 11 terrorist attacks on the US.

This week, Hasan Butt, leader of the al-Muhajiroun in Lahore, Pakistan, a Muslim organisation dedicated to promoting an "Islamic renaissance" in Pakistan, said Mr Khan had gone to Ahghanistan in early October to wage jihad (holy war) against Americans.

Mr Khan, of Bilberry Close, Bewbush, Crawley, was killed in an American air raid on Kabul.

He was sacked by Crawley-based catering firm LSG Sky Chefs, two days after the terrorist attacks on America, when he refused to carry out other duties while planes were grounded and meals were not being delivered in the same quantities.

Like other Gatwick workers, Mr Khan, had a security pass issued by BAA Gatwick entitling him to go airside.

The passes are for airport support firms such as caterers, baggage handlers, aircraft cleaners and for cabin crews.

A Gatwick spokesman said: "The system of issuing security clearance to members of staff requiring access to airside areas is stringent and meets strict guidelines laid down by the Department of Transport.

"Safety and security is top priority and these regulations are met by BAA Gatwick and all companies with an operation at the airport."

He said regular checks were carried out to ensure they were upheld.