Member-only story
Clapping on a plane — hot or not?
How we turned spontaneous outbursts of joy into shame.
You’re on a plane. There are some turbulences. You are scared for your life and feel as helpless as ever. You just put your life in someone elses hands. Nice person from a cabin crew walks around and makes sure that your seatbelt is fastened. After a few minutes, turbulences stop and everyone is relieved. Pilot announces that you’re in a safe zone and can unfasten your seatbelt. Quite a ride.
Some time later the moment comes when you have to fasten your seatbelts again. You’re going to be landing soon. With no difficulties the plane arrives smoothly at your destination.
What is your reaction?
Are you happy? Are you relieved? Are you grateful that the crew got you there in 1 piece? You probably are. But you’re probably not acknowledging that in any other way than saying “thanks” on your way out.
In Poland, there used to be a “tradition” of clapping after landing. Clapping in joy and gratitude for the crew. As it was a theatre play.
I think that was very cute and was eagerly clapping everytime I was flying when I was younger. Just a nice gesture of joy and appreciation.
