Planes landing at Coventry Airport causing 'wake vortex effect'
17.06.05
A local resident, Marian Murray, spoke at Leamington town hall this week about the 'wake vortex effect', caused by aeroplanes affecting the air behind them. Wake vortex effect, which is said to be like a mini-hurricane, was compared to 'something out of Harry Potter' by those experiencing it.
Experts accept the vortex can affect small aircraft trailing larger aeroplanes, though the effect it has on people has not been scientifically recognised. But Mrs Murray told the inquiry into the Thomsonfly terminal at Coventry airport that the vortex is affecting her health and disrupting her way of life.
Mrs Murray said: 'It has caused garden tables to be blown over, tree branches broken off, wildlife, pets, farm animals and residents to be frightened. The vortex happens 15 - 20 seconds after the aeroplane has gone over our house as it goes in to land. It is like a second jet or rifle shot, with a rushing wind swirling through the garden and around the house. Sometimes the noise can be heard 3 times, cracking around. This can be very frightening.'
Mrs Murray submitted a diary she kept of the incidents. One entry, from August 14 2004 at 09:55, states: 'Vortex heard and felt by neighbours' builders - likened to something out of Harry Potter!'
Warwick District Council claims the temporary terminal breaks planning laws - but Coventry airport's managers disagree. The inquiry is due to finish next month, but a decision on whether the building will be granted planning permission or be demolished is up to John Prescott, the Deputy Prime Minister, and is not expected until the end of 2006.
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