When should NWS be selected during a full stop landing?

Selecting NWS, or Nose Wheel Steering, after the aircraft has cleared the active runway is the appropriate procedure during a full stop landing. The primary reason for this timing is to ensure that the pilot has maximum control of the aircraft while it is still on the runway. During touchdown and the ensuing landing roll, the aircraft is subjected to various forces, including those from wind and the dynamics of the landing itself. Activating NWS too early while still on the runway could lead to a lack of control due to the steering response combined with the landing dynamics.

Once the aircraft is safely clear of the active runway, activating NWS allows for better maneuverability on taxiways and ramps where tighter turns or adjustments might be necessary. This process minimizes the risk of runway incursions and ensures safety by allowing pilots to concentrate on exiting the runway safely before engaging the steering feature. Thus, selecting NWS at the correct time enhances control and safety during the landing phase and immediately thereafter.