I understand that any aircraft over 136 tons TOW is designated "heavy." Intuitively, it makes sense, so that controllers know that you need more room to turn, a longer strip, etc. But there have to be specific reasons, and I'm just curious as to what they are...billg

When an aircraft is heavy is generates much more wake turbulence, thus requiring increased separation to following aircraft. The "heavy" designation notifies controllers of this.- Oyvind

makes sense, hadn't thought of that. Thx...billg