On a cross-country trip, if you can't find your next checkpoint, what should you do first?

In the scenario of not being able to locate the next checkpoint during a cross-country trip, the most appropriate action is to stay on the original course and look for familiar features on the ground. This approach allows you to maintain your intended flight path while you actively search for recognizable landmarks that could help you regain situational awareness.

By staying on your original course, you ensure that you are not straying from your planned route, which could complicate navigation further. Looking for familiar features provides a means to triangulate your position, as you can use known landmarks to orient yourself and ascertain your location relative to your intended destination. This step is crucial, especially in visual flight rules (VFR) conditions, where navigating by sight is essential.

Maintaining calm and continuing to fly without making changes could lead to further disorientation, while ascending to a higher altitude may not guarantee better visibility if you are already within limited visibility or cloud cover. It is also crucial to focus on the task at hand rather than panicking. Staying composed and methodically reassessing your surroundings can provide clarity and help point you back towards your route.