Why in the phonetic alphabet is three 'tree'?

Question

"Three" doesn't sound like any other number. Does it? Just wondering, its been on my mind for a while.

Answer 1

These things never make any sense. I always assumed that "nine" was "niner" because "nine" sounds an awful lot like "five" under poor radio conditions. Turns out it's because "nine" sounds the same as the German word for "no". I can't imagine any scenario where "nine" could be confused with "no" (it's either a yes or no question or a number, in what case could either fit?), but what do I know.

In any event, "no" is not even part of standard phraseology. A pilot should say "negative".

Answer 2

Been flyin forty years. Had know idea "tree" is in the phonetic alphabet. I knew takin those little power naps in early ground school wouldn't hurt anything. Wonder what else I don't know that doesn't matter.

Answer 3

The phonetic alphabet is considered internationaly stadardized so it can be used by all NATO members.  So simplicity is a major goal.

The old, U.S. Military phonetic alphabet, pronounced all number as two syllables.  If you ever used a 40's or 50's vintage HF you would understand why.  Initially long range communication, over the pond, was code and military Radio Operators had to be code qualified even when HF was standard.

Answer 4

Same reason five is "fife" and "four" has two syllables.

Answer 5

some people with a lisp would have a little difficulty pronouncing "Three" maybe it would sound like "Free" or something else.  Prevent ambiguity and make it easier to pronounce it's "Tree"