What defines a heavy aircraft?

A heavy aircraft is defined as one that has a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 136,000 kilograms (approximately 300,000 pounds) or more. This classification is significant in aviation because heavy aircraft have specific operational considerations, including increased wake turbulence and requirements for larger separation distances from other aircraft during takeoff and landing.

The choice regarding a maximum take-off weight of 136,000 kg or more aligns with internationally recognized standards set by aviation authorities. It is essential for pilots, air traffic controllers, and ground operations to understand these classifications to ensure safe airspace management and operations.

The other options do not meet the globally accepted criteria for heavy aircraft. The maximum take-off weights listed in those options are either well below 136,000 kg or equivalent weights that do not classify the aircraft as 'heavy.' For instance, a maximum take-off weight of up to 7,000 kg or exceeding 15,500 lbs would categorize the aircraft as small or medium rather than heavy, which does not reflect the operational challenges associated with heavier aircraft.