Should You Drink Airplane Water or Coffee? Here’s Why You May Want to Reconsider.

Let’s talk about what you should and definitely should NOT drink on an airplane – and how to hydrate and caffeinate without relying on mystery water.

What’s in That Airplane Coffee?

Let’s rip the band-aid off: don’t drink the coffee. Or the tea.

Here’s why: those drinks are made using water from the airplane’s onboard tanks. These tanks are not cleaned nearly as often as you’d expect. In fact, some of them only get serviced every few months. And when you’re dealing with water stored in a closed tank on a metal tube full of strangers, “occasionally cleaned” is not the vibe.

The EPA has even issued warnings in the past about water quality on airplanes. Tests have found bacteria in water samples from onboard tanks, including E. coli in some cases. Airlines are required to follow standards, but those standards are based mainly on how often the water is tested, and not necessarily how safe it is. (Though there is a requirement to test for coliform bacteria, and guidance on what to do if it’s found).

Now imagine that water getting boiled, filtered through a machine that’s also probably not getting scrubbed between flights, and poured into a plastic cup. Yum?

Even some flight attendants avoid it. That should tell you something.

What Not to Drink on Your Flight

1. Coffee or tea: Already covered it, but in case you’re still tempted: don’t do it! You don’t need mystery bacteria with your caffeine.
2. Tap water (even in the bathroom): Yes, it technically comes out of a faucet. No, you shouldn’t drink it. It’s the same tank water used for hot beverages. Don’t brush your teeth with it either.
3. Anything with ice (depending on the airline): Ice is usually made from filtered water at catering facilities, but not all facilities are created equal. If you’re on a major airline departing from a big hub, the ice is probably fine. But if you’re unsure, just ask for your drink without it.

What’s Safe to Drink on Your Flight

1. Bottled water: Most airlines hand this out like candy, especially on long-haul flights. It’s sealed, safe, and doesn’t involve any onboard plumbing.
2. Sodas and canned juices: If it comes in a can or bottle, you’re good. Diet Coke, ginger ale, and bottled juices are all fine.
3. Alcohol (with limits): If you’re in the mood for a little in-flight bubbly or whiskey, go for it, but don’t overdo it! Alcohol hits harder when you’re flying, and dehydration is already a concern in the air.

Bring Your Own Coffee

You can absolutely bring your own drink onboard, as long as you get it through security first. That means buying it in the terminal. Most people assume Starbucks is a no-go once you hit TSA, but that latte you grabbed near your gate is totally fine to bring onto the plane!

Get a drink with a secure lid. Spill-proof is the goal. That tray table’s seen things. Actually, you might want to bring some disinfecting wipes with you for that tray table. People change diapers and wipe boogers on there.

You can also bring a reusable cup and ask the barista at the Starbucks in your terminal to fill it. You’ll avoid the flimsy plastic lid shuffle entirely!

Some travelers even bring instant coffee packets and ask for a cup of hot bottled water. If your flight crew isn’t stressed and the airline has decent water options, this is a solid backup.

If You’re Desperate for Caffeine Mid-Flight…

Let’s say you forgot your Starbucks, and now your eyelids are staging a slow-motion rebellion halfway through a transatlantic flight. You could risk it and grab the airplane coffee, but only if your airline is known for strict hygiene standards and you’re not already feeling sketchy.

Still, if you can hold out until landing, your digestive system will probably thank you.

Happy Travels!

About the Author

Originally from Indiana, Heather believes every destination has a story worth telling and a reason to visit. With a deep love of adventure, history, and psychology, she shares travel trivia, tips, and inspiration to encourage you to explore the world with curiosity and optimism. Read her other articles on Frayed Passport here.

Featured image by Carolina Beiertz on Unsplash