Squawk code

A squawk code is a special number that pilots put into their plane's radio to help air traffic controllers keep track of where the plane is. It's like telling someone your phone number so they can call you.

Each squawk code is unique and tells the air traffic controllers which plane it is and where it is heading. The number itself is made up of four digits, and the pilot enters it into their plane's transponder, which is like a special radio that sends out the code to the air traffic controllers.

When a pilot changes their direction or altitude, they might need to change their squawk code to let the air traffic controllers know their new information. This helps keep all the planes in the sky safe and organized, kind of like lines on a playground.