[NonValueAdded]

Several explanations possible ...

Pilot realizes he screwed the pooch, doesn't reset device so he can claim equipment malfunction

Set code, some ATC nimrod asks him if he is declaring a hijacking, bad dude listening to the comms with a pistol at pilot's head encourages a negative verbal response.

Pilots bored, wanted a couple of Molsons and some toast.

[RushCrush]

wanted a couple of Molsons

ROTFLAMO!

[KevinDavis]

Correction former pilots..

[Utilizer]

TERR: "You arr h'ijak," waving pistol about cabin.
PILOT: "OK." (Sets XPONDR to "Hijack")
TOWER: "Virgin 45 Heavy; confirm "Hijack" code?"
TERR: "What heh min?" pointing pistol at Pilot
PILOT (prespiring like Barney Frank at a Bikers For America Run): "Uhhh... I've no idea." To tower; "No, a mistake, just trying to find Dr. Don Rose on the AM is all. Having a frightfully gay time here, how about you lot?"

I would not acknowledge a query sent in the clear about such a situation either; too much possibility that someone might become even more unhinged than already so.