When should a pilot contact ground control after landing at a tower-controlled airport?

A pilot should contact ground control after landing at a tower-controlled airport when advised by the tower to do so. This ensures that communication is conducted in an orderly manner, adhering to air traffic control protocols. The tower controllers have a comprehensive view of traffic on the runway and taxiways and are responsible for communicating when it's appropriate for the pilot to switch to ground frequency. This directive helps manage the flow of air traffic on the airport surface and reduces the risk of incidents.

Contacting ground control only when the tower advises allows for the seamless transition from the landing phase to the taxiing phase, ensuring that all instructions regarding taxi routes and any potential traffic conflicts are clearly communicated and understood. Doing so aligns with standard procedures that enhance safety and efficiency in operations at busy airports.