A medical expert has issued a stark warning to air travellers about the potential health risks of drinking water served on planes. The revelation may make you reconsider that next cup of tea or coffee during your flight.
The Dirty Truth About Aircraft Water Systems
According to the doctor, aircraft water tanks are rarely cleaned properly and can harbour harmful bacteria. "Many passengers don't realise that the water used for tea, coffee and even the tap in the lavatory comes from the same storage tank," the expert explained.
What's Really in Your In-Flight Drink?
The water systems on planes have been found to contain:
- Coliform bacteria (including E. coli in some cases)
- Other potentially harmful microorganisms
- Residue from cleaning chemicals
- Rust and sediment from ageing pipes
Why Plane Water Poses Special Risks
The doctor highlighted several factors that make aircraft water particularly problematic:
- The tanks are only required to be cleaned every few months
- Water is often sourced from different locations worldwide
- The storage and distribution systems are difficult to sanitise properly
- Stagnant water during long ground times allows bacteria to multiply
Protecting Yourself While Flying
For health-conscious travellers, the doctor recommends:
- Always opting for bottled water instead of hot drinks
- Avoiding brushing teeth with tap water on planes
- Using hand sanitiser rather than washing with plane water
- Being particularly cautious on older aircraft
The expert concluded by saying that while the risk of serious illness is relatively low, frequent flyers should be especially mindful of these potential health hazards at 30,000 feet.
