John Brooks, of Brighton Road, Crawley, is also accused of criminal damage following the investigation by Sussex Police.
A force spokesman said: “A man has been identified and charged as part of a police investigation into the theft of luggage from London Gatwick Airport.
“The incident had been reported to Sussex Police at about 6pm on Thursday, October 30.
“Luggage was reported stolen from the South Terminal, and a suspect was seen leaving the Zone A area via the Southern Walkway and Ring Road towards the B2036 Balcombe Road.
“Police issued an appeal to identify a man they wished to speak with in connection with the offence.
“We can confirm officers arrested a man following this appeal.”
Brooks is set to appear at Crawley Magistrates’ Court on November 25, the spokesman added.
