What can be nicer than ordering a cooling glass of water or a comforting cup of tea while sitting back and relaxing on the flight? But it turns out, it may not be such a good idea.
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Experts warn that drinking airplane water - whether it’s cold or hot - may leave you with a ‘traveller’s tummy’ before your holiday has even begun. And the reason behind it is disgusting.
‘You’re potentially drinking from dirty pipes’
Travel expert and founder of AirAdvisor, Anton Radchenko revealed which drink they'd always avoid on a plane. The frequent flyer warned travellers could run a few risks if they consume it.
Radchenko said:
There are so many dos and don'ts when flying. But if I had to pick just one, it would be to avoid drinking plane water whether it’s in hot or cold drinks.
According to the expert, ‘inflight tap water systems are rarely cleaned’.
He added:
So, when you ask for a glass of tap water, hot chocolate or a cuppa, you’re potentially drinking from dirty pipes.
This way passengers could end up with a ‘traveller's tummy’ before their trip has even begun.
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Radchenko explained that while planes do carry drinking water, it can be sourced from any pickup point on that plane’s route and can be stored for long periods which inevitably means that the water quality is reduced.
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Radchenko admitted he would always bring bottled water on a flight as ‘you know where the water has come from.’
Travel expert said:
Drinking bottled water reduces the risk of contamination. Airlines are required to adhere to stringent regulations regarding water quality and run water tests regularly. But serious contamination can take place.
Many airports now have water fountains for passengers to use so tourists can save money and bring their own reusable bottles from home.
This helps to protect the environment and also means passengers don’t have to pay for expensive bottled water.
Although tourists will soon be able to take liquids over 100ml through airport security, they can fill a reusable bottle after they’ve passed the checks.
Radchenko reminds that passengers should make sure to drink plenty of fluids when they fly as it’s easy to become dehydrated.
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Sources used:
- Express: Travel expert explains which drink to always ‘avoid’ on a plane - systems ‘rarely cleaned’