Expert: Dacus T. Grant - 4/16/2005

Question
I fly a Heavy aircraft and recently a new F/O questioned me about the used of the term "Heavy" during Comm. with ATC.

My question is: Do I need to say the word Heavy everytime I call ATC during an App or I only have to use the word "Heavy" during my first contact? As per FAR/AIM as I understand it is only necessary to use the word "heavy" during the fist contact.

Thank You

Juan Ortega

Answer
Hi Juan,
    I agree with you.  However, different circumstances would suggest that you use the word “Heavy” during all communications with ATC.  For controllers in the En Route environment it is only necessary to use the word “heavy” on initial contact or during other circumstances as outlined in the FAA 7110.65 Air Traffic Controller Manual.  The 7110.65 says:  
2-4-14. WORDS AND PHRASES
EN ROUTE. The use of the word heavy may be omitted except as follows:
a. In communications with a terminal facility about heavy jet operations.
b. In communications with or about heavy jet aircraft with regard to an airport where the en route center is providing approach control service.
c. In communications with or about heavy jet aircraft when the separation from a following aircraft may become less than 5 miles by approved procedure.
d. When issuing traffic advisories.
In the terminal environment however controllers do not have the option to omit the word “heavy' during radio communications.
The 7110.65 says:
Use the words or phrases in radiotelephone and interphone communication as contained in the P/CG. The word "heavy" shall be used as part of the identification of heavy jet aircraft as follow:
  TERMINAL. In all communications with or about heavy jet aircraft.
The question is: are pilots required to use the word “heavy” the same as controllers?  My first response would be no.  Why.
1.   The 7110.65 does not address pilot requirements, only controller requirements.
2.   The Aim is not directory in nature.  Meaning that what the AIM says is not required however it is good operating procedure.    
So, in closing, terminal controllers must use the word heavy when communicating with heavy aircraft on frequency, En Route controllers have the option of omitting “heavy” under certain circumstances.  
I hope this helps.  If you have any further questions you can email me at dacusg@gmail.com
Thanks
Dacus Grant