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The use of squawk 1000 in Europe

Squawk 1000 is used between a few countries in Europe as part of a modernized air traffic management system. This code is specifically tied to the use of Mode S transponders which has the following benefits:

  • Unique identification: Unlike traditional transponders, Mode S transponders transmit a unique 24-bit address for each aircraft, which serves as a digital fingerprint. This allows air traffic control systems to identify each aircraft without needing to rely on individual squawk codes.
  • Data-rich communication: The Mode S transponder sends detailed information, such as the aircraft's altitude, position, speed, and flight ID, directly to ATC. This data is transmitted automatically and continuously, providing real-time updates.

Traditionally, aircraft are assigned different squawk codes to differentiate them on radar. However, with Mode S transponders, each aircraft is already uniquely identified through its transponder data. Squawk 1000 acts as a placeholder, indicating to the ATC system that the aircraft's Mode S transponder is providing all the necessary information.

Countries using squawk 1000

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Croatia
  • Czech Republic
  • France
  • Germany
  • Hungary
  • Italy
  • Luxembourg
  • Netherlands
  • Poland
  • Romania
  • Slovakia
  • Switzerland (LSZR,LSZB,LSZG,LSGC,LSZH,LSGG)

This behavior is modeled in BeyondATC. Therefore, you will be assigned squawk 1000 if you are flying between these countries.

Further reading: