Medium Large Transport; Low Wing; 2 Turbojet Eng
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 218; Flight Crew Total 4297; Flight Crew Type 4297
Communication Breakdown
ATC Issue All Types; Deviation - Altitude Excursion From Assigned Altitude; Deviation - Track / Heading All Types; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Clearance
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance
Human Factors; Procedure
While in the descent/arrival phase of flight; we were cleared direct to a fix and to descend and maintain 7000 ft. At this time Center also handed us off to the next Center.  In compliance with the clearance; we proceeded direct to the fix and descended to 7000 ft. The hand-off to the next Center was successful and the Captain was able to establish communication.  However; as we were approaching the fix; with no further clearance; the Captain attempted to query the new Center 2-3 times for further instructions.  With no response; as we passed the fix at 7000 ft.; I initiated a right procedure turn (northwest) and initiated a descent to 2500 ft.  As we completed the procedure turn; the Captain was able to re-establish communication.  The Center Controller expressed concern about the fact that we had proceeded past the fix and descended below 7000 ft without further clearance.  However; he did not ask for follow-up communication via landline.  The Center Controller cleared us to continue the RNAV (GPS) approach.  We landed without incident and cancelled our flight plan once we were on the ground.Once we determined we were not in contact with Center; we had no way of knowing when or if we would be able to re-establish communication with them and we had a limited amount of fuel left.  Additionally; TCAS displayed no other aircraft operating in the area. Based on these circumstances; the Captain and I decided to fly the published RNAV (GPS) approach procedure and proceed to the airport.
[Report narrative contained no additional information.]
An Air Carrier flight crew lost communication with ATC in the final phase of flight and during approach. Communication was regained prior to landing.