What should a pilot do if they lose navigation equipment?

When a pilot loses navigation equipment, the most appropriate action is to notify Air Traffic Control (ATC) immediately. This is essential because ATC can provide assistance in maintaining safety and situational awareness. They can help the pilot navigate to safety and may offer vectors to the nearest airport or provide guidance based on the aircraft's reported location and altitude. Communication with ATC also ensures that the flight's status is recognized by controllers, which is vital for coordinating traffic in the airspace.

Maintaining contact with ATC allows for real-time adjustments to the flight plan and potential rerouting, which can enhance safety when dealing with navigation difficulties. In many situations, ATC may have access to more comprehensive surveillance and radar data, which can facilitate the safe management of the flight despite the loss of onboard navigation capability.