Air travel isn’t what it used to be, thanks to cramped seating, fellow passengers, and now an alarming concern: the water onboard. Before you board your next flight, it’s essential to consider the water quality, whether it’s for drinking or washing your hands. A recent investigation by Diet Detective and the Hunter College NYC Food Policy Center has revealed that water on various U.S. airlines may not be safe, and in some cases, could even lead to illness.
The 2019 Airline Water Study
The 2019 Airline Water Study evaluated water quality on 11 major and 12 regional airlines. Researchers assigned scores based on factors such as the airline’s size, bacterial contamination, and compliance with the federal Aircraft Drinking Water Rule (ADWR), which mandates safe drinking water. A score of three or higher indicates acceptable water quality; however, only three of the major airlines and just one regional airline met this standard.
Alaska Airlines and Allegiant topped the major carriers with a score of 3.3, while Hawaiian Airlines followed closely with 3.1. In contrast, Spirit and JetBlue received alarming scores of just one out of five. Among regional airlines, Piedmont Airlines scored the highest at 4.33, while Republic Airways lagged behind with a dismal 0.44.
How to Safeguard Your Health
Given that flying is often unavoidable, how can you safeguard your health? Experts recommend steering clear of any water that isn’t bottled or sealed — this includes coffee and tea served on flights. Additionally, it’s wise to avoid washing your hands in the airplane lavatory; instead, carry your own antibacterial wipes or hand sanitizer.
Why is Airplane Water So Risky?
The study notes that aircraft often draw water from multiple sources, both domestic and international, which can compromise safety. The quality also hinges on the equipment used to transport the water, such as tanks, hoses, and carts.
While airlines share the blame, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also has a part to play. The study criticized the agency for its slow response and lack of transparency, particularly when it came to addressing violations by airlines like Spirit, Allegiant, and Frontier.
Final Thoughts
Next time you fly, prioritize your health by opting for bottled water and using hand sanitizer. For more information on health-related topics, check out this insightful post on our blog. Also, if you’re interested in parental leave, visit this authority site for comprehensive resources.
In summary, the safety of water on many U.S. airlines is questionable, with only a few meeting health standards. Passengers should be cautious and avoid unsealed water while flying.