Study Advises Against Consuming Certain Beverages on Planes

Recent research highlights concerns over the quality of water served in-flight, urging travelers to opt for bottled water rather than coffee or tea available on board.

Airlines and Water Safety

According to findings, major airlines may provide water that doesn't meet safety standards, prompting a recommendation for passengers to avoid using tap water for drinking or handwashing unless supported by a sanitizing alternative.

The research, conducted by the Center for Food as Medicine & Longevity, analyzed over 35,000 water samples from various airlines to conclude that some carriers deliver water quality that poses health risks.

Impact on Public Health

Water consumed during flights can lead to ailments like gastrointestinal issues if contaminated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining water safety as a matter of public health.

Study Findings

The study revealed 2.7% of all water samples contained total coliform bacteria—common in the environment and often associated with the presence of other harmful microorganisms.

Instances of E. coli were recorded 32 times across the investigated airlines, marking a significant concern from the safety perspective.

The Aircraft Drinking Water Rule established by the EPA mandates checks for these contaminants, though penalties for non-compliance appear infrequent.

Airline Responses

American Airlines claims compliance with all federal regulations, reporting no significant findings from recent audits, while JetBlue adheres to agency guidelines, serving bottled water predominantly.

The airline industry maintains that passenger safety remains a top priority, with protocols in place to ensure the reliability of drinking water during flights.

Grading of Water Compliance

The study included a ranking system to evaluate airlines based on their water safety practices, with notable differences among carriers.