A recent TikTok video featuring a flight attendant's recording of a stormy landing in Stavanger, Norway, has ignited a discussion about a common passenger practice: applauding the pilots upon touchdown. Is it a gesture of gratitude or a potential faux pas?

Travel expert Rosie Panter, affiliated with the travel comparison site Dealchecker, weighed in on the matter, expressing her disapproval of the practice in an interview with the Daily Express. She believes applause should be reserved for exceptional circumstances, not routine landings.

However, airline pilots offered a different perspective. In anonymous interviews, they revealed a quiet appreciation for the applause, especially after challenging landings. They view it as a recognition of their skill and performance under pressure, akin to applauding a performer.

Interestingly, they acknowledged that the applause isn't always audible in the cockpit due to the aircraft's size and the distance between the cabin and the flight deck.

Another etiquette expert interviewed by the Daily Express deemed applauding pilots disrespectful, suggesting it implies surprise at their competence or sarcasm in the case of a bumpy landing. This view, however, was countered by Jacqueline Whitmore, a former flight attendant and etiquette expert, who sees it simply as an expression of gratitude for a safe arrival.

While the debate about applause continues, pilots shared some preferred expressions of appreciation. Instead of thanking them for a "safe flight," which they consider a fundamental expectation of their job, they suggested thanking them for an "enjoyable flight" or acknowledging a smooth landing. A simple "thank you" upon exiting the aircraft is also appreciated, especially as many passengers are often preoccupied with their phones and don't acknowledge the pilots.