In the UK we sip approximately 100 million cups a day, so it’s no surprise we like to have a cuppa when we go on holiday. But a tea expert’s insight could have you think twice before accepting that complimentary (if you’re lucky) hot beverage on your next plane journey.
A recent TikTok clip by user Stella, which divulged her ‘top plane food hack’ of carrying her own ramen/noodles and requesting hot water from the flight attendants, ignited a discussion about the safety of using airplane water. Several commentators advised against it, with one cautioning: “Nooooooooo maybe bring your own water and use the microwave if they have one? Never drink the airplane water.”
Tea expert Arthur Gautier from Nio Teas validated these apprehensions, pointing out the potential health hazards of consuming tea and coffee on aircrafts due to dubious water quality.
He noted: “The water used for tea and coffee on planes comes from large tanks that, let’s just say, don’t get the same level of attention as your kitchen tap at home,” and continued, “It’s not always as clean as you might think, especially on long-haul flights.”
Arthur highlighted that this concern could lead to more than just an unsatisfactory brew; for those with delicate stomachs or weakened immune systems, it could mean enduring some unwelcome discomfort mid-flight. Another concern is the close proximity of the coffee machines to the plane’s lavatories, raising additional hygiene questions.
Arthur shared: “Apparently those machines don’t get much love between flights, unless they break down”. He warned that due to infrequent cleaning, there’s a risk of residue and bacteria accumulating over time, raising concerns for passengers who value cleanliness.
“If cleanliness is a priority for you, you might want to think twice before reaching for that in-flight cup of coffee,” he advised. To avoid problems, Arthur suggests opting for sealed drinks onboard.
He further explained: “If you really want tea, ask for a bottle of water and a cup of hot water separately. You can steep your tea bag in the bottled water, then warm it up using the hot water.”
He admits that using boiling water this way can be tricky and requires caution. When selecting the most suitable tea for in-flight consumption, Arthur recommends teas like green, white, or herbal blends such as chamomile or peppermint, which all brew well at lower temperatures and still retain their flavour.
He added: “When you’re flying, the cabin pressure and altitude can really dull your sense of taste, so that cup of tea or coffee might not taste as good as it normally would-regardless of the water quality. To make the most of it, go for teas that brew well with warm water, and always use bottled water when you can. That way, you can enjoy your drink without worrying about any unpleasant surprises.”