What is the proper action if you are directed to orbit but the controller does not respond on high key?

Continuing to orbit is the appropriate action if you are directed to do so and there is no communication from the controller at high key. This procedure is essential for maintaining safe and organized traffic patterns, particularly in busy airspace. By staying in the orbit, you are ensuring that you remain in a controlled holding pattern while waiting for further instructions, allowing for situational awareness and enabling the controller to manage the traffic efficiently.

If you were to attempt to establish contact without ensuring you are in a safe holding position, you could inadvertently introduce confusion or risk collisions with other aircraft. Similarly, performing a go-around or expecting a landing clearance in the absence of communication could lead to uncontrolled flight situations if other factors in the airspace change. Therefore, orbiting provides a prudent and systematic approach to maintaining safety while you await further guidance from air traffic control.