What action is taken if Case II flights do not have the ship in sight during recovery?

When Case II flights do not have the ship in sight during recovery, the appropriate action is to vector into the bolter/waveoff pattern. This procedure ensures the safety of the aircraft and crew by directing them to a recognized pattern that allows for a safe escape from the landing attempt while maintaining airspace and operational safety.

In a bolter or waveoff situation, the aircraft is essentially instructed to abandon the landing approach due to various reasons, including lack of visual contact with the carrier. Vectoring into this pattern enables pilots to safely distance themselves from the ship to reassess their approach, manage fuel appropriately, or wait for another opportunity to land. This procedure is fundamental during aircraft operations from carriers, especially under the specific conditions dictated by Case II recoveries, where visibility may be limited.

The other choices involve actions that wouldn't adequately address the situation. Conducting a fuel check does not provide a solution to the immediate concern of not seeing the ship. Resuming initial altitude may not ensure a safe recovery path, and landing at the nearest airfield would not be a practical option for aircraft specifically trained for carrier operations without prior arrangements. Thus, the decision to vector into the bolter/waveoff pattern is the most suitable and procedural correct response in this scenario