Which squawk code indicates an emergency?

Which squawk code indicates an emergency?

• A. 7700
• B. 7600
• C. 1200
• D. 7500

Answer: (A)

Emergency transponder signaling is used to tell ATC that you need immediate assistance and priority handling. When an aircraft selects this specific code, ATC recognizes the urgency, coordinates rapid responses, and may clear the airspace and routes to prioritize that aircraft and summon emergency services if needed. The other codes indicate different conditions—radio communication failure, a hijack situation, or normal VFR operations—none of which convey an immediate emergency. So the code that flags a general emergency is the correct choice because it directly communicates the need for urgent action.

Emergency transponder signaling is used to tell ATC that you need immediate assistance and priority handling. When an aircraft selects this specific code, ATC recognizes the urgency, coordinates rapid responses, and may clear the airspace and routes to prioritize that aircraft and summon emergency services if needed. The other codes indicate different conditions—radio communication failure, a hijack situation, or normal VFR operations—none of which convey an immediate emergency. So the code that flags a general emergency is the correct choice because it directly communicates the need for urgent action.