When should pilots activate the transponder "ident" feature?

The transponder "ident" feature should be activated when instructed by Air Traffic Control (ATC). This feature helps ATC to identify and track an aircraft more easily on their radar display. When a pilot activates the "ident," it sends a special signal that highlights their aircraft on the radar, making it simple for ATC to visually confirm the aircraft's location and information.

Using the "ident" feature unnecessarily or too frequently outside ATC instruction could lead to confusion and clutter on radar displays, and it could also divert attention from other important traffic. Therefore, pilots should reserve the activation of the "ident" function for specific ATC instructions, typically in scenarios where ATC needs to differentiate an aircraft or when they are providing instructions that require greater emphasis on a particular flight. This protocol ensures efficient communication and coordination between pilots and air traffic controllers.