Airline Water Quality Study Reveals Safety Concerns for Passengers

Flight passengers may want to reconsider drinking tap water or washing their hands on planes, according to a comprehensive new analysis of airline water systems.

The Center for Food as Medicine and Longevity, based in New York City, recently conducted an extensive review of water quality aboard commercial aircraft over a three-year period. The study analyzed more than 35,000 samples collected between 2022 and 2025, evaluating both major carriers and regional airlines.

Researchers graded airlines based on several key factors, including contamination violations, E. coli findings, maintenance practices, and the frequency of water system cleaning. A score of 3.5 or higher was considered indicative of relatively safe water, while lower scores suggested potentially hazardous conditions.

The findings raise serious concerns about water safety on commercial flights. During the study period, researchers documented 32 E. coli violations across 21 airlines, highlighting potential health risks for millions of passengers who fly regularly.

Delta Air Lines emerged as the industry leader for water safety, with Alaska Airlines also performing well in the rankings. At the opposite end of the spectrum, Spirit Airlines, JetBlue, and American Airlines received the lowest scores, indicating potential problems with their water systems.

Charles Platkin, the lead researcher behind the study, told Fox News Digital that while airlines often cite compliance with federal guidelines, much of this data is self-reported. “Compliance should be the floor, not the ceiling,” Platkin emphasized, suggesting that airlines should be doing more than meeting minimum requirements to protect passenger health.

The study raises questions about whether current industry practices and federal regulations are sufficient to ensure passenger safety. Platkin noted that travelers shouldn’t have to worry about water safety when ordering drinks or washing their hands during flights. “These aren’t luxuries; they’re basic expectations,” he said.

Health experts recommend that passengers take precautions when flying. Nicolette M. Pace, a registered dietitian and founder of NutriSource in New York, advised travelers to fill reusable water bottles after clearing security or purchase bottled water instead of consuming beverages made with tap water onboard. She also suggested using hand sanitizer rather than washing hands with airplane tap water.

Pace warned that consuming contaminated water, even at low levels, can disrupt digestion and weaken immune defenses. The risk is particularly significant for vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, and those with compromised immune systems.

Airlines mentioned in the report have responded with varying degrees of concern. Spirit Airlines stated that it maintains an extensive testing and maintenance program for onboard water systems that complies with the Environmental Protection Agency’s Aircraft Drinking Water Rule. “The well-being and comfort of our guests is very important to us,” the airline said, adding that internal data shows progress in recent years.

American Airlines affirmed that its potable water program fully complies with EPA requirements and noted that a recent EPA audit found no significant issues. The carrier said it is reviewing the study’s methodology to determine whether additional changes could further enhance passenger safety.

Delta Air Lines, which topped the rankings, stated that the result reflects its “commitment to providing clean, safe, potable water for customers and employees.” The airline emphasized that “safety and quality in all aspects of our global service and operation are paramount at Delta.”

JetBlue responded that safety is “their first responsibility” and highlighted that they serve bottled purified drinking water on all flights. For coffee and tea preparation, the airline follows processes outlined by multiple federal agencies and performs routine water system sampling and cleaning procedures to ensure safety.

The study comes at a time of increased scrutiny of airline practices and passenger amenities. As air travel continues to recover from the pandemic slowdown, health and safety considerations remain top priorities for both travelers and industry stakeholders.

For passengers concerned about water quality, experts recommend bringing bottled water purchased after security screening, using alcohol-based hand sanitizer, and avoiding beverages prepared with airplane tap water when possible.