Originally Posted by
Airfix
Yeah and fly what heading or direction? I've seen ATC so busy that it could take 1 to 2 minutes to get a word in?
Not if you declare an emergency and squawk 7700 to light up his board, which this definitely is unless you have the sectional charts out (or know the area) and are 100% satisfied that a straight-ahead or dead reckoning climb around the arc to the MSA will keep you from hitting something.
I think it's clear that the question assumes no GPS that can substitute or it wouldn't be asked (although asking "what other equipment do I have on board" would be a good question). Even a handheld GPS would be a lifesaver in this situation.
Out of ATC communication also? Hope you have those sectionals. I would not turn to the VOR for the reasons already stated.