If a receiver cannot obtain clearance after air refueling, what should it do?

The appropriate action for a receiver that cannot obtain clearance after air refueling is to follow the tanker. This is crucial because the tanker aircraft is responsible for ensuring safe operations during the air refueling process. By following the tanker, the receiver can maintain a safe distance and maintain awareness of the tanker’s intentions and actions, which may include returning to base or leading the formation back to a safe environment.

This choice reflects a fundamental safety protocol in aviation, emphasizing coordination and situational awareness among aircraft during refueling, particularly when communication issues arise. The receiver's role is to closely monitor the tanker and proceed in tandem until a safe approach to continue operations or re-establish communication is made.

Other actions, such as landing at the nearest airfield or returning to the original flight plan without further communication, do not prioritize maintaining a safe flying environment nor coordination with the tanker. Initiating a breakaway maneuver could be appropriate in certain scenarios, generally when an immediate separation is required, but it is typically a response to a specific problem rather than a standard action when facing communication issues after refueling. Therefore, following the tanker is the most effective and safest choice when unable to obtain clearance.