My french colleagues like to question me on all things 'american' that they find curious. Recently they asked my why Americans applaud when the plane lands. A few of them had witnessed this and were confused. I've seen it a few times, but not necessarily after an especially impressive landing. So, can anyone answer this? Does it happen only in certain regions (they saw it in the midwest on regional carriers (nw airlink). Does it happen in other countries? And WHY do people do it?

Thanks!

Sheila