What is a "Heavy"

[Bidimus]

Listening to ATC recordings I hear pilots identify themselves as a "Heavy". What does this refer to?

[Peter Grey]

Any aircraft with a MGTW of over 300,000 lbs. Specifically it's to warn everyone that there are wake turbulence concerns.

In terms of aircraft type, the "smallest" heavy I know of is the B757-300.

[Bidimus]

I see. That makes sense. Is the use of the heavy identification a requirement or a courtesy?

[Peter Grey]

Requirement for ATC in the terminal and tower environment, pilot wise it's not "required" per regulation, but those aircraft will be operating under company rules. Those company rules are likely to require the use of heavy in some cases.

[zengei]

There's also "Super", which currently only refers to the A380.

[Bidimus]

Interesting. Thanks.