Here’s why travellers should rethink drinking in-flight tea or coffee

Tea or coffee?

As more people take to the skies, especially with holiday season travel, a cup of tea or coffee during a flight might seem like the perfect way to relax. 

But before you reach for that hot beverage, Arthur Gautier, a tea expert, is sharing some advice that might have you reconsidering. 

Gautier warns that there could be health risks linked to drinking tea and coffee on aeroplanes, especially when you factor in how onboard water quality plays a role in what ends up in your cup.

How clean is that water?

One of those things that often flies under the radar is just how often (or not) the water tanks on aeroplanes are cleaned. If you’ve seen those viral social media posts from flight attendants, you’ve probably heard the whispers – those tanks aren’t exactly getting the TLC you’d hope for.

“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,” says Arthur. “It’s not always as clean as you might think, especially on long-haul flights.”

For anyone with a sensitive stomach or a weaker immune system, that less-than-fresh water could mean more than just a bad-tasting brew – it might lead to some unpleasant discomfort mid-flight.

Location, location, location

Have you ever thought about where your tea or coffee is actually made on a plane? If you’re observant you may have noticed that those trusty coffee machines are often placed right next to the toilets – yes, that close. Eww. If that wasn’t enough to make you pause, it gets worse.

“Apparently those machines don’t get much love between flights, unless they break down,” shares Gautier, hinting at the less-than-sparkling conditions. Over time, residue, germs, and bacteria can easily build up, making the situation even less appealing. With the machines sitting so close to the restrooms, it’s not hard to see how things might get a bit… unsanitary.

“If cleanliness is a priority for you, you might want to think twice before reaching for that in-flight cup of coffee,” he adds.

Safer alternatives: Bottled drinks and warm tea tricks

If you’re still craving a warm drink but want to avoid the risks, Arthur Gautier suggests some clever alternatives. 

“It’s safer to stick with bottled or canned beverages while flying,” he recommends. “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.”

Of course, this isn’t always the easiest task depending on the size of the bottle and the cup you get. And remember, boiling hot water can be dangerous, so be extra careful not to spill it while trying this method. 

When it comes to tea, it can help to choose types that steep well at lower temperature water. Arthur suggests teas like green tea, white tea, or herbal blends such as chamomile or peppermint, which are perfect for steeping in warmish water without sacrificing too much flavour. So even at 30,000 feet, you can still enjoy a decent cup without the worry.