Vortex Repair Scheme

Repairing Roof Damage

What is vortex damage?
Vortices are circulating currents of air caused by moving aircraft. Whilst most vortices are broken up by the natural flow of air before they reach the ground, sometimes they can reach roof level, causing movement or slippage to tiles. A trained assessor can identify whether or not particular roof damage resulted from an aircraft vortex. 

Which areas are affected by vortex damage?
A boundary has been identified within which vortex damage is most likely to occur. Further details can be obtained by contacting our Community Relations team on 08000 967 967.
More information 

Who is legally liable if damage occurs?
Manchester Airport is not liable for vortex damage. Liability lies with the operator of the aircraft concerned - this is governed by Section 76 (2) of the 1982 Civil Aviation Act. In recognition of the fact that aircraft identification is not always possible, Manchester Airport has introduced a vortex repair scheme as part of our commitment to the local community. 

What should you do if you suspect vortex damage?
Contact our Community Relations team on 08000 967 967. Please provide the following information:

• The exact time of damage, if known
• The extent and nature of the damage
• If you are the property owner, your name, address and telephone number
• If you are not the property owner, the name, address and telephone number of the owner
• Details of the aircraft concerned. If you were not able to make such identification, please supply details of why you think vortex damage was responsible for the incident
  

We will then appoint a specialist contractor to inspect and report on your roof. They will usually visit within 24 hours. If you have a valid claim, immediate arrangements will be made for repairs to your roof. If your property falls within the protected area, you may also be eligible for a new roof covering at a later date, using tile pinning and clipping that will make your roof resistant to future vortex strikes.

If the damage occurs at night please call careline on 090 10 10 1000* or at the weekend call the main airport switchboard on 08712 710 711. When connected ask to speak to the Airfield Duty Manager about the Vortex Repair Scheme. The Duty Manager will contact our assessor for you.

*Calls cost 50.3p from BT landlines. Costs from other networks and mobiles may vary.

What happens if you live outside the protected area, but you suspect vortex damage?
Our appointed agent will assess any damage. Should damage be confirmed, we will undertake repairs, however this will not make your property eligible for re-roofing. Mitigation Scheme Brochure 

Contact
Manchester Airport Community Relations
Tel: 08000 967 967 (voicemail is available outside normal working hours)