Monaco Falcon 3A-MGA

[falconflier]

Crossed paths with the Monaco Falcon in the ELP area yesterday. Question, during the 2 radio calls I heard, they identified themselves as "Whiskey Three Alpha Mike Golf Alpha". What is the significance of the W designation? First time I've heard it used.

[FLEXJET]

The (FAA ATC?) apparently can't accept an ACID starting with a digit, hence the addition of W in that particular case. I noticed 3A-MGA and some other aircraft also adding N.


https://flightaware.com/live/flight/W3AMGA
https://flightaware.com/live/flight/N3AMGA

[imriozer]

Originally Posted by FLEXJET

The (FAA ATC?) apparently can't accept an ACID starting with a digit, hence the addition of W in that particular case. I noticed 3A-MGA and some other aircraft also adding N.


https://flightaware.com/live/flight/W3AMGA
https://flightaware.com/live/flight/N3AMGA

Agree with flex, every time we fly to the US we have to file with a letter at the start of th call sign, we usually add N as it is the most convenient to the controllers.

[Mr TRC]

You passed Prince Albert's private aircraft. Considering there is no airfield (besides a heliport and I think they all have French reg) in Monaco, it would be impractical to register a fixed wing aircraft with a 3A callsign.

I could see why a head of state gets an exemption though.

[falconflier]

Interesting, thanks for the quick replies everyone

[HeliHenri]

If you want to register an aircraft in the Principality

Individuals : How to register an aircraft / Registration / Boats and aircrafts / Transport and mobility / Public Services for Individuals- Monaco

Companies : How to register an aircraft / Registration / Air transport / Transport / Public Services for Businesses- Monaco

[CL300]

Originally Posted by Mr TRC

You passed Prince Albert's private aircraft. Considering there is no airfield (besides a heliport and I think they all have French reg) in Monaco, it would be impractical to register a fixed wing aircraft with a 3A callsign.

I could see why a head of state gets an exemption though.

Wrong assumption...you can register an airplane in Monaco even if you are not the prince, and there is quite a few...

[flyboyike]

That's funny, I heard him on the radio, too, and was also wondering what was going on.

[Grum]

We have a 9H registration (Malta) and have to add an X when going to the states. The call sign becomes a real mouthful but one clever controller just called us "The Maltese Falcon" :-)