What is the correct squawk code for emergency situations?

The correct squawk code for emergency situations is 7700. This code is universally recognized among air traffic control and is specifically designated for indicating a general emergency. When pilots set their transponder to 7700, it alerts air traffic controllers that the aircraft is experiencing an emergency, which prompts them to give priority handling and assist in any necessary way.

The other codes serve different specific purposes; for example, squawk code 7500 is used to indicate a hijacking, while 7600 signifies a loss of communications. Setting a squawk code of 0000 does not communicate any meaningful information to air traffic control and thus is not used in emergency situations. Understanding the implications of squawk codes is crucial for pilots and air traffic controllers in ensuring the safety and proper management of air traffic.