If NORDO and not previously established on course rules arrival, what is the first action to take?

In scenarios involving NORDO (No Radio), the pilot must prioritize safety and navigate according to established procedures. The first action often involves maintaining a safe altitude and position in relation to controlled airspace and surrounding traffic, which is typically done by flying at a predetermined altitude such as 3500' MSL above specific locations like KNGP.

Flying at this altitude helps ensure that the aircraft is visible to other pilots and maintains a safe vertical separation from terrain and obstacles, which is critical in the absence of communication with air traffic control. This altitude is generally above the minimum safe altitude for the area, allowing for sufficient margin for safety.

In other options: executing a go-around is a maneuver intended for a landing scenario, thus not applicable to a NORDO situation where the aircraft is already airborne; requesting clearance from ATC is untenable since communication is unavailable; and contacting nearby aircraft is valuable, but flying at a safe altitude should be the immediate priority to prevent collisions while trying to communicate.