What should a pilot do upon arriving at a clearance limit without further instructions?

When a pilot arrives at a clearance limit without further instructions, the appropriate action is to request further clearance and hold in a standard or charted pattern. This is essential for maintaining safety and efficient air traffic management. By holding, the pilot remains in a controlled airspace while waiting for updated instructions from air traffic control (ATC), which may involve further clearance for landing or continuing to the destination.

Holding in a standard pattern ensures that the pilot is prepared to respond to ATC's instructions promptly once they are received. It allows for organized traffic flow, especially when other aircraft may be approaching or departing nearby facilities. The request for further clearance demonstrates a proactive approach to communication with ATC, which is crucial for safety in a busy airspace environment.

In contrast, simply holding without a request for further instructions or clarification from ATC may lead to unnecessary delays or miscommunication. Continuing to the destination without authorization could result in violating ATC directives, potentially creating hazards in the airspace. Similarly, transferring communication to the next ATC facility without instructions would not address the need for further clearance and may leave the pilot without critical information.