A seasoned flight attendant has issued a stark warning to travellers, advising them to avoid drinking tap water on planes due to potential health risks.

The water tanks on aircraft are often not cleaned thoroughly, which could lead to the presence of harmful bacteria such as E.coli.

An experienced flight attendant has sounded the alarm ahead of the busy season for Ryanair, Jet2, easyJet and TUI, urging passengers to steer clear of plane tap water.

Both travel expert Ski Vertigo and the veteran flight attendant have highlighted the importance of avoiding tap water during flights due to potential health hazards and the impact on your overall travel experience.

The water tanks on planes are frequently not cleaned properly, which can result in contamination. Studies and reports suggest that these tanks can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and pathogens.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has discovered that a significant number of planes tested positive for coliform bacteria, with some even testing positive for E. coli, reports Birmingham Live.

These bacteria can lead to severe gastrointestinal problems and other infections.

The coffee and tea served on flights are typically made using the plane’s tap water. This means that any contaminants in the water tanks can also be found in these beverages.

Flight attendants have revealed that the equipment used to make coffee and tea, including coffee makers and kettles, are not always cleaned adequately. This can lead to the presence of additional bacteria and mould. 

Drinking polluted water while onboard air travel can result in an array of health problems, ranging from subtle gastrointestinal discomfort to debilitating infections. Those who are most at risk include the elderly, infants, and individuals with feeble immunity.

Air travellers can take several measures to ensure they have access to safe potable water during a flight. These options include carrying your own water bottle or purchasing bottled drinks from airport vendors before boarding the flight.

A flight attendant, speaking to France-based ski holiday provider Ski Vertigo, shared her insights on the issue. She said: “To save money and stay healthy on your flight, pack an empty reusable water bottle in your carry-on luggage.

“Once you’ve passed through security, fill it up at a water fountain or bottle refill station in the airport. This ensures you have clean water without the cost of purchasing bottled water from airport vendors or on the plane, where prices can be high.”

“For a comfortable and hygienic flight, consider bringing your own snacks and beverages. Many airports have shops offering a variety of food and drink options, often at a lower cost than what you’ll find in-flight.

“On top of that, by selecting your own items, you can cater to your dietary preferences and avoid any potential health risks from plane-provided beverages and meals.”