USAF Instrument Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive Test Preparation

The correct response is 30 minutes after oceanic entry. This timeframe is established to ensure effective communication and tracking of aircraft in oceanic airspace where radar coverage may be limited. Squawking 2000—an arbitrary code that indicates VFR (Visual Flight Rules) in uncontrolled airspace—enhances the ability of air traffic control and other aircraft to be aware of the aircraft’s presence.

This procedure is important as it assists crews in transitioning from land-based operations to the more challenging environment of oceanic flying, where navigating and maintaining situational awareness become increasingly complex. By squawking at the specified time after entry, crews ensure that their transponder is functioning correctly and that they remain visible to other air traffic monitoring systems that may rely on transponder signals for situational awareness, especially in areas where radar coverage is sparse.

Understanding this protocol is essential for operational safety in oceanic regions, highlighting the importance of maintaining vigilance and compliance with established procedures.