A seasoned flight attendant has shared a crucial tip for both long and short-haul flights, warning that ignoring this advice could potentially lead to illness.
Top travel expert Ski Vertigo and an experienced flight attendant have cautioned passengers against consuming tap water on aircraft – noting that even beverages like tea and coffee can harbour harmful bacteria.
While this might not be the case with the majority of flights, the travel experts said: “Airplane water tanks are often not adequately cleaned, leading to potential contamination. Research and reports indicate that the water in these tanks can harbour harmful bacteria and pathogens.
“The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found that a significant percentage of aircraft tested positive for coliform bacteria, and even E. coli in some cases. These bacteria can cause serious gastrointestinal issues and other infections.”
They further noted that the cleaning schedules for aeroplane water tanks can be irregular, which can result in a build-up of bacteria and microorganisms. This makes the tank much harder to clean.
The issues with tap water have also led experts to advise against ordering tea or coffee when onboard a plane. They said: “The coffee and tea served on flights are often made using the plane’s tap water, which means that any contamination in the water tanks is also present in these beverages.
“Flight attendants have reported that the equipment used to brew coffee and tea, such as coffee makers and kettles, are not always cleaned properly. This can result in the presence of additional bacteria and mould.”
They added that consuming drinks made with contaminated water can lead to nausea, diarrhoea, and other gastrointestinal problems, which can be particularly unpleasant during a flight.
A flight attendant, who spoke to Ski Vertigo, shared some advice on how to avoid tap water, tea, and coffee while onboard plane.
“To save money and stay healthy on your flight, pack an empty reusable water bottle in your carry-on luggage. Once you’ve passed through security, fill it up at a water fountain or bottle refill station in the airport” they explained, “This ensures you have clean water without the cost of purchasing bottled water from airport vendors or on the plane, where prices can be high.”
“For a comfortable and hygienic flight, consider bringing your own snacks and beverages. Many airports have shops offering a variety of food and drink options, often at a lower cost than what you’ll find in-flight. On top of that, by selecting your own items, you can cater to your dietary preferences and avoid any potential health risks from plane-provided beverages and meals.”