What is the initial action if you lose sight of the runway while circling?

When you lose sight of the runway while circling, the appropriate action is to initiate a climbing turn toward the landing runway. This maneuver enables the pilot to maintain a visual reference for the approach while allowing for an immediate return to the final approach path if the aircraft becomes visually clear and safe for landing again.

Executing a climbing turn helps to maintain altitude and situational awareness as you navigate back toward the runway. This approach reduces the risk of descending or losing control of the aircraft in an attempt to regain visual contact, which can be dangerous if the terrain or obstacles are present.

This choice reflects a fundamental principle of instrument flying, where maintaining a safe operating altitude and a clear path is a priority when visual references become compromised. Other actions, while they may have their own contexts, do not prioritize maintaining a safe approach toward the runway and visual re-acquisition.