Water on some planes may be unsafe, study finds

A study of more than 35,000 aircraft water samples found 2.7% tested positive for coliform bacteria; researchers reported some airlines carried potentially unsafe water and advised avoiding onboard tap water for drinking or handwashing.

A U.S. analysis reported that some airplane tap water samples contained coliform bacteria, which can indicate contamination. The Center for Food as Medicine & Longevity reviewed more than 35,000 samples from 21 U.S. airlines collected over three years, from Oct. 1, 2022 through Sept. 30, 2025. Samples were taken from locations such as galleys and aircraft bathrooms and were tested for coliforms and E. coli. The researchers reported that some airlines carried potentially unsafe water and advised avoiding onboard tap water for drinking or handwashing. Key findings: - More than 35,000 water samples were collected from 21 U.S. airlines between Oct. 1, 2022 and Sept. 30, 2025. - Overall, 2.7% of samples tested positive for coliform bacteria; testing included checks for E. coli. - Samples came from galleys and bathroom faucets, and researchers reported recommending bottled water and avoiding use of onboard tap water for drinking or handwashing. Summary: The report indicates a small share of aircraft water samples contained bacteria that can signal contamination, and researchers flagged onboard tap water quality. Undetermined at this time.