When should the word "heavy" be used in communications with Air Force One or Air Force Two?

When should the word "heavy" be used in communications with Air Force One or Air Force Two?

• A. Always when they are in the vicinity
• B. Never
• C. When they are departing from a busy airport
• D. When requested by the pilots

Answer: (B)

The correct response is that the word "heavy" should never be used in communications with Air Force One or Air Force Two. The designation "heavy" is traditionally used to indicate that an aircraft is significantly larger than standard air traffic, often due to its maximum takeoff weight or the potential for wake turbulence. However, Air Force One and Air Force Two have specific protocols and designations that manage their communications and operations. Using "heavy" could lead to confusion or miscommunication within air traffic control since these planes have priority status and already require distinct handling due to their nature and operational security. The protocol emphasizes not using the "heavy" designation to maintain clarity and efficiency in air traffic management surrounding these aircraft. In contrast, the other options suggest scenarios where "heavy" might typically be invoked with regular commercial or cargo flights, which is not applicable to Air Force aircraft due to the unique operational procedures that govern their flight paths and communication standards.

The correct response is that the word "heavy" should never be used in communications with Air Force One or Air Force Two. The designation "heavy" is traditionally used to indicate that an aircraft is significantly larger than standard air traffic, often due to its maximum takeoff weight or the potential for wake turbulence. However, Air Force One and Air Force Two have specific protocols and designations that manage their communications and operations.

Using "heavy" could lead to confusion or miscommunication within air traffic control since these planes have priority status and already require distinct handling due to their nature and operational security. The protocol emphasizes not using the "heavy" designation to maintain clarity and efficiency in air traffic management surrounding these aircraft.

In contrast, the other options suggest scenarios where "heavy" might typically be invoked with regular commercial or cargo flights, which is not applicable to Air Force aircraft due to the unique operational procedures that govern their flight paths and communication standards.