What transponder code should gliders equipped with a transponder use?

Gliders equipped with a transponder should use the code 1202. This specific code is designated for gliders and is part of the transponder code assignments that help Air Traffic Control (ATC) to identify and manage different types of aircraft in controlled airspace. By using 1202, gliders indicate their presence to ATC as non-powered aircraft, which can be crucial for maintaining safety, especially in busy flight paths where the mix of powered and non-powered aircraft occurs.

The other codes listed are reserved for different purposes: 1200 is the VFR (Visual Flight Rules) code used by general aviation; 1255 is often associated with military use in specific scenarios; and 1277 does not correspond to any standard allocation for gliders or other general aviation aircraft. Therefore, selecting the proper code is essential for gliders to ensure they are being appropriately recognized and managed in the airspace system.