How do the remaining aircraft in a standard formation respond to ATC?

The appropriate response for remaining aircraft in a standard formation is to squawk standby. When aircraft are flying in formation, they operate under specific protocols with ATC to ensure safety and efficient communication. When instructed, the remaining aircraft typically switch their transponders to standby mode to reduce clutter on ATC radar. This allows ATC to focus on the lead aircraft's transponder signal, which is usually assigned to maintain situational awareness and effectively manage separation from other air traffic.

Continuing their assigned squawk might not provide the clarity that ATC requires when managing multiple aircraft, especially if they are closely grouped together. Turning off transponders altogether could lead to a loss of radar tracking and situational awareness, making it difficult for ATC to monitor the aircraft's position. Switching to a different channel is not standard for formation flying and could disrupt communication, potentially causing confusion between the formation and ATC. Therefore, squawking standby is the method that best serves the communication needs of a formation while ensuring safety and clarity in ATC operations.