What squawk code is used exclusively for emergencies?

The squawk code used exclusively for emergencies is 7700. This code is assigned to indicate a general emergency situation on board an aircraft, allowing Air Traffic Control (ATC) to prioritize communication and assistance for that aircraft. When a pilot sets their transponder to this code, it alerts ATC that the aircraft is in distress, thus necessitating prompt action and resources to provide support.

In the context of aviation communication, specific squawk codes are designated for certain situations—such as hijacking, which is indicated by the code 7500, or communication failure, represented by 7600. The code 7200 is related to general airspace violation or transponder codes that are not aligned with any specific emergency protocol. Understanding these codes is crucial for effective incident response and coordination among air traffic control, pilots, and emergency services.