What should you NOT do regarding single-piloted helicopters when dealing with radar code requests?

The situation involving single-piloted helicopters and radar code requests requires careful consideration of their operational limitations. Instructing a single-pilot helicopter to change its transponder code can lead to increased workload and operational complexity for the pilot, who is already managing many tasks. This could divert their attention from flying the aircraft safely, especially in critical phases of flight or busy airspace.

In contrast, merely requesting a code change allows the pilot to respond based on their capacity to manage that change without imposing a directive. Allowing the helicopter to maintain its current code can also be appropriate, especially if it is effectively communicating with air traffic control or if the change isn't critical. Advising the use of squawk 7700, which indicates a general emergency, is reserved for situations that necessitate immediate attention and is not something to suggest lightly in routine communications.

By instructing rather than requesting, the controller could inadvertently contribute to a situation where the pilot feels overloaded or pressured, which is counterproductive to ensuring safe and efficient flight operations. Therefore, the recommendation to avoid instructing single-piloted helicopters to change codes is rooted in prioritizing the pilot's ability to manage their responsibilities effectively.