What do pilots do after landing?
Touchdown might feel like the end of the flight, but for pilots, it’s just the start of a new phase.
Right after the wheels hit the runway, there’s a lot of work to be done and every action has a reason behind it.
Let’s break it down.
1. Maintain Control and Slow Down
The moment the aircraft touches down, pilots focus on keeping it centered on the runway and reducing speed safely.
We do this by:
Applying reverse thrust (if available)
Using manual or automatic brakes
Maintaining directional control with the rudder or nose wheel steering
This phase is critical, especially on short, wet, or contaminated runways.
2. Exit the Runway and Clean Up the Aircraft
Once slowed down, pilots exit the runway at a safe taxiway and notify ATC:"Runway vacated, request taxi."
Then comes what’s called “cleaning up” the aircraft:
Retract flaps
Disarm spoilers
Turn off landing lights
Stow reverse thrust levers
This helps prepare the aircraft for safe taxi and avoids unnecessary system use.
3. Taxi to the Gate
With clearance from Ground Control, pilots taxi to the assigned gate or parking stand.
During taxi, we:
Follow standard speed limits (usually under 20 knots)
Monitor airport signs and markings
Watch for other aircraft, vehicles, and ground personnel
Stay in communication with the ground controller at all times
The goal is to keep the aircraft moving safely and predictably in a busy environment.
4. Set Parking Brake and Shut Down
Once parked, the parking brake is set, and the engines are shut down according to the checklist.
If the aircraft is equipped with an APU (Auxiliary Power Unit), it’s usually started to provide electrical power and air conditioning until ground power is connected.
Lights, fuel pumps, and other systems are turned off as part of the shutdown checklist.
5. Post-Flight Duties
Pilots still have a few important tasks before they leave the cockpit:
Fill out the flight logbook
Report any technical issues or write-ups
De-brief with the cabin crew
Review the flight for performance and safety
If another crew is taking over the aircraft, a proper handover briefing is done as well.
The landing might feel like the grand finale, but it’s really just the start of the wrap-up.
From braking and exiting the runway to shutdown and paperwork, every step after landing is done with purpose and discipline.
Because a flight doesn’t end with the wheels it ends with the full job done well.