Many of us trust the safety and cleanliness of airplane water and ice, but how much do we really know about where they come from and how they’re treated? The truth is, the airplane water and ice supply system is not always as closely monitored and regulated as we might hope. In this article, we explore the dirty truth about airplane water and ice, revealing the potential health risks and offering advice on how to protect yourself while traveling.
The Dirty Truth About Airplane Water And Ice
Flying can be a thrilling experience, as you soar through the skies, enjoying the beauty of the world from a perspective few get to witness. However, something many people fail to consider is the quality of the water and ice provided on flights. Unfortunately, the truth is that airplane water and ice can be contaminated with more than a few unsavory particles.
H2: The Source of the Problem
The problem regarding contaminated water and ice in airplanes lies in where airlines source their water. Typically, airlines refill planes with water that comes from various sources, such as municipal water supplies or wells. While these sources are typically safe, the danger lies in that the hoses used to refill the planes with water are not kept clean, allowing for bacteria and other contaminants to collect and thrive within them.
H2: The Dangers of Contaminated Water
Drinking contaminated water can lead to a variety of illnesses, including gastrointestinal illnesses such as diarrhea and vomiting. A study by the Environmental Protection Agency found that drinking water contaminated with bacteria, viruses, or parasites can lead to infections of the skin, eyes, ears, and respiratory tract, as well as cardiovascular and neurological issues. Similarly, contaminated ice can lead to illnesses such as norovirus, which can cause severe gastrointestinal issues and leave passengers feeling sick for days.
H2: What Airlines Are Doing About It
To address the issue of contaminated water and ice, airlines have taken steps such as cleaning their water tanks more frequently and adding chlorine to the water to kill any bacteria. However, this does not entirely remove the issue, as the hoses used to transfer water from the source to the plane are still a source of contamination, and the levels of chlorine used can lead to an unpleasant taste that can put passengers off drinking water altogether.
H2: What Passengers Should Do
While airlines have made efforts to improve the quality of their water and ice, passengers can take steps to ensure their safety when it comes to consuming these substances. Bringing bottled water onto the plane is one option, although passengers should ensure that the bottles are unopened and that they are purchased from a reputable source. Additionally, avoiding ice in drinks can be a good idea, as this reduces the risk of consuming contaminated ice.
H2: The Need for Improved Regulations
Despite the efforts of airlines and passengers alike, more needs to be done to ensure that the water and ice provided on airplanes are safe for consumption. The Federal Aviation Administration has been slow to enforce regulations governing airplane water, leading to a lack of consistent standards across different airlines. Additionally, the agency has failed to implement standards that require airlines to test their water for contamination, instead opting to rely on voluntary self-reporting from airlines themselves.
The Bottom Line
Airplane water and ice can be a source of contamination that many passengers fail to consider. While airlines have taken steps to improve the quality of their water and ice, more needs to be done to ensure that these substances are safe for consumption. Passengers can take steps to protect themselves, but ultimately the responsibility lies with the airline industry and their regulators to ensure that safe and healthy drinking water is provided to those flying the skies.
