14 January 2024 , 11:30
841
0
If you always say yes to that cup of tea or coffee on a flight you might reconsider after reading this warning from a travel expert.
When you're travelling it's important to stay hydrated, especially on planes, as the lack of moisture and high altitudes can leave you feeling tired out and drained. While some travellers make sure to bring a bottle of water onboard with them, others might rely on hot beverages onboard to keep them hydrated - especially if it's complementary.
But a travel expert has now shared the disgusting reason you should stick to bottled mater on planes - and it might make you think twice about accepting that cuppa. Anton Radchenko, travel expert and founder of AirAdvisor, said that the most important tip he tells people when flying is to "avoid drinking plane water" – no matter whether it's in cold or hot drinks.
This isn't a time to try to save money, because the "in-flight 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."
Another reason is that you don't know where in the world that water has come from. He explained: "While planes do carry drinking water, it can be sourced from any pickup points on that plane's route and it can be stored for long periods which inevitably means that the water quality is reduced."
Red Arrow pilot forced to send out emergency alert after bird smashes into jet
Although airlines are "required to adhere to stringent regulations regarding water quality and run water tests regularly, it doesn't mean "serious contamination" can't take place, he claims. If you drink contaminated water there is a risk of illness, which is especially worrying if you have any underlying health conditions or a weakened immune system.
However, it doesn't mean you shouldn't drink water at all, or you risk being dehydrated. Anton said: "Flying increases the risk of dehydration. So, it's important to keep up your water intake. But drinking poor quality water can be worse than not drinking enough. Bringing bottled water is always safer.
"And remember – alcohol is NOT a good substitution! It may feel good in the moment, but it will really dehydrate you. Which is bad for your health and bad for your holiday!"