British Airways has completed a week-long trial removing plastic water bottles from its in-cabin service on select long-haul flights between London Heathrow and US destinations, including Miami, Los Angeles, and Boston. Premium and economy passengers were served water in paper cups instead, as the airline evaluates feedback to determine whether to make the change permanent across all routes.
The trial, which ran from June 16 to 22, is part of British Airways' commitment to reducing single-use plastic. The airline states it aims to eliminate such plastics where sustainable alternatives exist, such as bamboo and paper. It has already removed plastic packaging from blanket wrappings and introduced duvets made from recycled plastic.
Environmentalists have long called for a ban on plastic water bottles in aviation, as the industry generates approximately 6.1 million tonnes of plastic waste annually—about two per cent of global plastic waste. Philippe De Naeyer of deSter, a provider of food packaging and service ware for aviation, noted the potential to eliminate this waste with reusable service ware, but emphasised the need for durable and sustainable materials for drinking cups.
However, the trial has faced criticism. One recent traveller on an online forum described it as a 'cost-saving exercise under the guise of saving the polar bears'. British Airways has not confirmed whether the move will be extended, but a spokesperson confirmed the trial to the Mirror and said the airline is reviewing customer feedback.
British Airways has also pledged to become carbon net zero by 2050, investing in more efficient aircraft and supporting the development of sustainable aviation fuels, hydrogen-powered aircraft, and carbon capture technology. Last year, it won the SEAL Business Sustainability Awards for advancing onboard recycling.
