Everyone has a go-to drink when flying on a plane. Some folks like to have an alcoholic beverage, while others prefer a hot cup of tea or a bubbly soda. But you might be surprised to learn that there's one drink that experts advise against ordering when you're up in the air. Read on to find out which drink you should steer clear of on an airplane and what you should order instead. Let's get to it!
So which airplane beverage should you actually steer clear of?
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Is it wise to consume airplane coffee?
Drinking coffee on a flight can be risky, especially if it's brewed right on the plane. This has little to do with the coffee beans themselves but rather the tap water used to make the coffee. According to a 2019 study, many major airlines failed to properly clean and disinfect the water tanks on their planes. These tanks need to be regularly tested and disinfected to remove harmful bacteria like E. coli. While some airlines like Alaska and Allegiant had relatively safe drinking water, others like JetBlue and Spirit had poor cleaning standards, potentially serving up contaminated tap water. This means any coffee, tea, or other hot beverage brewed on the plane could be at risk of containing harmful bacteria.
However, other experts have pushed back on the idea that airplane coffee is unsafe. They claim the high temperatures used to brew the coffee, around 195 degrees Fahrenheit at cruising altitude, are hot enough to kill off any bacteria. Most germs can't survive temperatures above 175 degrees.
That said, if you're flying out of a country with unsafe drinking water or a hot climate that could encourage bacteria growth, it's probably best to avoid any hot drinks brewed on the plane. It's better to be safe than sorry when it comes to what you consume while flying.
Coffee and other drinks can actually dehydrate you…
Staying hydrated while flying is crucial, and coffee might not be the best choice. The average humidity aboard airplanes is around 20%, which can easily dry out your skin and eyes. This low humidity makes diuretic beverages like coffee more dehydrating. Sugary drinks like soda and red wine, which contain byproducts that contribute to rapid dehydration, are also not ideal.
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To stay well-hydrated, the Aerospace Medical Association (AsMA) recommends drinking 8 ounces of water for every hour you're in the air. Bottled water is preferable to avoid any potential contamination from the plane's tanks. Maintaining proper hydration is important for your overall health and comfort during the flight, regardless of sanitary concerns.
Better beverage alternatives to consider
Bottled water is the best drink to have on a plane. It keeps you hydrated, and the packaging protects the water from any potential contaminants. However, if you're looking for something with added flavor, there are several other beverages worth considering for your next flight. When you're up in the air, your taste buds are affected by the high altitude and increased cabin pressure, which can make some drinks taste different – and sometimes even better.
One of the most popular in-flight drinks is ginger ale. When you're flying, ginger ale's sweetness is reduced, giving it a sharper and crisper taste. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help improve circulation, which could be beneficial when you're sitting for hours on a long flight. While some popular ginger ale brands like Canada Dry and Schweppes don't have much real ginger and are high in sugar, many travelers still enjoy the taste.
Another popular option is tomato-based drinks. Their strong flavor profile still comes through, even with dulled taste buds. This includes plain tomato juice or even cocktails like a Bloody Mary. Studies show that tomato juice tastes crisper and more refreshing in the air, providing a satisfying umami flavor. Tomatoes are also rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory benefits, which could help promote circulation during long flights. Just keep in mind that these drinks often have high sodium levels, which could contribute to dehydration, so be sure to drink plenty of water as well.
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