Why do I not hear "Heavy" in Europe?
I am based in the USA, working for a major US carrier, and we are required to use the term "Heavy" with our call signs when first contacting ground, tower and approach. Yet when I fly into Europe, "Heavy" seems to not be used at all on these facility frequencies. Why is that? Also, why do I have to report my aircraft type when first contacting Heathrow Director? Does the controller not have this information on the "Strip"?
Curious more than anything, but as I am a line trainer, I would like to have this info as part of my briefings to the pilot newbies....
Thanks - OH