If your aircraft loses radar contact, what should be your first action?

When radar contact is lost, the priority is to ensure clear communication with Air Traffic Control (ATC) to regain situational awareness and ensure safe navigation. Attempting to re-establish contact with ATC is crucial because they have the resources to confirm your position, provide necessary updates, and assist in maintaining separation from other air traffic.

By regaining contact, you can receive instructions tailored to your current situation, including guidance on deviations from your flight path or altitude changes necessary for safety. Communication with ATC can also help confirm any issues that may have caused the loss of radar contact and facilitate a coordinated response to ensure the safety of your flight.

Continuing on your current flight path without guidance after losing radar contact can risk entering controlled airspace without authorization or encountering other hazards. Descending to a lower altitude might not necessarily be safe without ATC’s instructions, and reporting your position to other aircraft could lead to confusion without ensuring the proper communication channels with ATC are re-established first. Thus, the correct action emphasizes the importance of effective communication in maintaining flight safety.