Squawk codes: 1200, ident, and the emergency codes
The transponder is how ATC sees you on radar, and “squawk” is the word for setting it. A handful of codes are worth knowing cold — especially the emergency ones.
What “squawk” means
When ATC says “squawk four two seven one,” they want that code set in your transponder. It tags your radar return so they can pick you out from everyone else on the scope.
1200 — the VFR code
If you are flying VFR and not receiving flight following or any other service, you squawk 1200. It simply marks you as a VFR aircraft.
“Ident”
When ATC says “Cessna One Two Three Four Five, ident,” you press the IDENT button. It makes your return blossom on their scope so they can confirm which target is you. You do not read it back — you just push the button.
Assigned codes
When you pick up flight following or an IFR clearance, ATC assigns a discrete code. Set it and read it back: “Squawk four two seven one, Cessna One Two Three Four Five.”
The emergency codes
7500 is hijack, 7600 is lost communications (radio failure), and 7700 is a general emergency. A common memory aid: 7500 taken alive, 7600 cannot talk no more, 7700 going to heaven. When something is wrong and you are not sure, 7700 gets everyone’s attention.
Do not trip the alarms
Try not to spin the knob through 7500, 7600, or 7700 on your way to another code, or you can set off alerts. Many modern transponders guard against it, but change codes deliberately.
Drill the readbacks
Practice setting and reading back assigned squawk codes on Clearspar until it is automatic. Free, no mic.
Practice these calls with instant grading — free.
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