When unable to locate your position on a cross-country flight, what is the next best action?

The best action when unable to locate your position on a cross-country flight is to change course and fly to where there are more landmarks. This approach is effective because visual references can help you reorient yourself and determine your location. By flying towards areas with identifiable landmarks, you increase your chances of recognizing a familiar point or being able to triangulate your position with features on the ground.

Searching for landmarks is a practical strategy, especially in an environment where GPS or other navigational aids may not be available or functioning properly. It leverages visual navigation techniques that can help rebuild situational awareness.

Other options, while they may seem viable, do not necessarily address the immediate goal of locating your position. Returning to the point of departure may not always be feasible, especially if you are far from your original location. Circling back to the last known checkpoint might not provide useful information if you have already progressed significantly. Contacting another pilot for guidance, while potentially helpful, may not yield immediate positional awareness compared to actively searching for recognizable terrain features.