FAA Ground School Practice Test

Under what conditions should a pilot plan to select a code other than 1200?

1. When flying above 10,000 feet

2. When entering Class B airspace without ATC clearance

3. When an aircraft is holding or in a pattern

4. When receiving ATC instructions

The correct answer is: When receiving ATC instructions

Selecting a code other than 1200 is primarily necessary when a pilot is receiving Air Traffic Control (ATC) instructions. Under these circumstances, ATC often assigns a specific squawk code to the pilot. This code, which is different from the standard VFR code of 1200, allows ATC to identify and track the aircraft on radar, ensuring safe separation from other traffic and effective communication. When a pilot is given an ATC code, it also provides enhanced situational awareness for both the pilot and air traffic controllers, allowing for more effective management of air traffic, especially in busy airspace. This is crucial for maintaining safety and organization in the skies. Factors like flying above 10,000 feet, entering Class B airspace without ATC clearance, or simply being in a holding or pattern are related to altitude and airspace regulations but don’t necessarily dictate the reason for changing from the standard VFR squawk code to something else. Instead, the direct interaction with ATC where they instruct a pilot to use a particular code is the key situation that requires such a change.