Radio communicationsQuestion 258 of 934

What does AIM say about transponder code 7777 and civil aircraft?

  1. A civil pilot must never use it
  2. A civil pilot uses it after a radio failure, to alert ATC
  3. A civil pilot uses it when flying in a formation flight
  4. A civil pilot uses it only below 10,000 feet MSL in daylight
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Correct answer: A civil pilot must never use it

Under no circumstances may a civil pilot operate the transponder on code 7777.

Source: Aeronautical Information Manual (FAA, Basic with Change 3, 9 July 2026), AIM 4-1-20 Transponder and ADS-B Out Operation — Code Changes, page 223

Practice radio communications

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026