When should you start the after landing checklist?

The appropriate time to start the after landing checklist is when the aircraft is clear of the duty runway. This ensures that all necessary checks and procedures are performed in a safe and systematic manner without impeding the flow of traffic on the active runway.

Initiating the checklist while still on the runway could distract from maintaining control of the aircraft and managing the taxi, especially in an environment where situational awareness is crucial. By waiting until you’ve exited the runway, you can focus on safely taxiing while also reviewing the checklist items with minimal risk of distraction or urgency.

Starting the checklist only after reaching a safe taxiing speed, or once you are on the taxiway, might cause the pilot to overlook important items or create a rushed environment, particularly in busy or complex airport operations. Similarly, waiting until reaching the parking area also delays the checklist actions that could be handled while taxiing as part of maintaining safety and efficiency. Thus, starting the checklist when the aircraft is clear of the duty runway aligns with best practices in aviation safety.