If you've ever sat on a plane during impending turbulence, when a plastic cup of green tea turns into a kind of makeshift pendulum, then you know how reassuring it is to hear those magical words: "Cabin crew, prepare for landing." And when the plane finally settles on the ground after a few bumpy touches, a wave of relief washes over you. You feel like you've experienced something out of the ordinary, maybe even magnificent – and you clap your hands as the plane lands! Your hands spontaneously express excitement and gratitude.
But is that really okay? It is applause Is it really an appropriate response to a plane full of exhausted passengers and tired staff landing? Or is it perhaps a remnant of a more kitschy tradition that expired sometime around 2003? Surprisingly, behind this seemingly innocent act lie quite a few reasons why we should seriously think twice before turning on our own internal ovation. Etiquette experts explain that applause is not just a matter of joy, but above all a matter of cultural tact, respect for context, and a healthy measure of understanding of the circumstances.
Why do passengers clap when a plane lands?
Clapping when a plane lands is nothing new. It's about a primal expression of relief, when the passengers finally feel the ground under their feet again after several hours at 10,000 meters. People applaud because they are grateful pilot for a safe landing or simply because they're happy to have arrived at all. And yes, if the flight was like riding an old bus through the Balkan twists and turns, it's understandable that you want to show some gratitude - even if it's just with your palms.
But it's not just about relief. In some cultures, like the Philippines, Puerto Rico, or Colombia, clapping is actually usual ritual – as a kind of homecoming of a winner. The roots of this custom go back to a time when flying was something exclusive. Air travel was special, the staff served with a smile and real plates, and the passengers wore ties. In those days, applause was an expression of thanks for the comfort and elegance, not just for safety. But times have changed – these days we're packed in like sardines on a plane, and snacks are often limited to cookies and a plastic glass of water.
Why is clapping when a plane lands not (anymore) the best idea these days?
Despite good intentions, clapping in the modern aviation context is may be inappropriate – or even disturbing. It is a kind gesture, but not always appropriate. Sometimes applause can turn out to be sarcastic – especially if it comes after a particularly rough landing or a long delay. It's even worse when clapping after a forced landing or in the event of an emergency – then any celebration can be offensive to other passengers, who may have experienced serious stress or even fear for their lives.
Besides, let's be honest... The pilot's job is to land safely.. No one applauds a firefighter for successfully putting out a fire. No one sings the praises of a waiter for bringing an accurate bill. So why applaud a pilot for doing his job?
And one more important thing: clapping is not universally acceptable. While it's seen as a warm gesture in some cultures, it can be seen as childish, weird, or even disrespectful in others. In the UK, for example, you'd probably raise your eyebrows more when you're applauded upon landing than if you were wearing flip-flops with white socks. The point? If you're not sure how to respond, watch others.
When is applause on an airplane really appropriate?
Although it is better to remain collected and respectful when landing, there are times when applause more than welcomeIf a pilot announces that someone has flown a million miles on a flight, if a newlywed couple is celebrating, or if a captain is saying goodbye to his long career – then applause is not only appropriate, but almost expected. But the key difference is this: in these cases it is a clearly marked moment of celebration, but not for spontaneous applause out of nervousness, joy, or boredom.
How can you show gratitude without clapping?
If you want to show that you appreciate the crew's efforts, you have at your disposal more discreet and effective options like clapping. To start, you can simply you follow the instructions – clear the table, put away the trash, turn off your electronics, and raise your seat before you're reminded three times. This is basic etiquette that surprisingly many people still ignore.
The second way is verbal thanksWhen you get off the plane, make eye contact with the flight attendant or pilot and simply say: “Thank you for a pleasant flight!” Believe me, after a twelve-hour shift, this means more to them than instant applause.
And if you're really excited – Write a compliment. A quick note on your seat or a message to the airline via an online form mentioning the crew member's name and describing why you were impressed - this goes a long way. Most passengers write complaints - be an exception and write a compliment.
Conclusion
Flying is now more routine than luxury, yet there is still something wonderful about the fact that a person can fly across oceans and continents in a few hours with the help of a machine. The applause upon landing may stem from a time when the skies were reserved for the brave and wealthy. Today, instead of applauding, we should show respect for staff, empathy for fellow travelers, and a basic sense of the momentSometimes silence – especially after a successful landing – is the most eloquent gesture of gratitude.
