If pilots encounter weather conditions that exceed operational limits, what should they do?

When pilots encounter weather conditions that exceed operational limits, diverting to an alternate airport or returning to the departure airport is the most appropriate action. This choice prioritizes safety, as flying in adverse weather can pose significant risks to flight operations and passenger safety.

Pilots are trained to recognize and respond to changing weather conditions, and when those conditions surpass what is deemed safe by operational standards, the prudent course of action is to reroute to a safer environment. This could involve landing at an alternate airport that is better equipped to handle the current weather or returning to the original departure point, where conditions may be more favorable.

The other options suggest actions that could compromise safety. Continuing the flight as planned disregards the immediate threats posed by adverse weather. Contacting air traffic control for advice might help clarify the situation, but it does not directly address the need for action regarding safety protocols. Flying at a higher altitude may not effectively mitigate the effects of severe weather, and it could lead to additional risks, such as icing or turbulence. Prioritizing a safe landing when faced with hazardous weather is always the best course of action.