What does transponder code 7600 indicate and how should ATC respond?

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Multiple Choice

What does transponder code 7600 indicate and how should ATC respond?

Transponder code 7600 means radio communications failure. When an aircraft selects this code, ATC knows the pilot cannot communicate and must manage the situation using the last assigned and any expected instructions, then the filed plan if needed. In practice, controllers keep the aircraft on the last assigned route and altitude and continue to provide separation using radar, while attempting to re-establish contact by other means and issuing further instructions as possible. The other codes describe different scenarios: 7500 relates to hijacking or unlawful interference, and 7700 is for emergencies; requesting a weather update isn’t signaled by this transponder code.

Transponder code 7600 means radio communications failure. When an aircraft selects this code, ATC knows the pilot cannot communicate and must manage the situation using the last assigned and any expected instructions, then the filed plan if needed. In practice, controllers keep the aircraft on the last assigned route and altitude and continue to provide separation using radar, while attempting to re-establish contact by other means and issuing further instructions as possible. The other codes describe different scenarios: 7500 relates to hijacking or unlawful interference, and 7700 is for emergencies; requesting a weather update isn’t signaled by this transponder code.

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