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Wait, should I not be drinking airplane coffee? (classic)

Jun 20, 2025
Queer Eye’s Antoni Porowski questions the safety of coffee served on airplanes, sparking a playful yet alarming discussion about onboard hygiene. The hosts share juicy anecdotes about health scares and the questionable quality of airplane water. They highlight shocking truths about infrequent cleaning of beverage systems and the presence of harmful bacteria. Expert insights reveal contrasting safety standards between home and airline water. Join them for a humorous yet eye-opening look at your next in-flight brew!
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ANECDOTE

Antoni Porowski's Water Worries

  • Antoni Porowski learned from flight attendants and his ER physician father that airplane water tanks are rarely cleaned, making drinking coffee or using bathroom water risky.
  • He avoids airplane coffee and brings his own beverages to control what he consumes during flights.
ANECDOTE

Nancy Keats' Water Testing Legacy

  • Nancy Keats, a Wall Street Journal reporter, investigated airplane water quality in 2002 inspired by a forum post by a 13-year-old tester.
  • Her lab results found harmful bacteria and insect eggs in airline water, exposing serious contamination issues.
INSIGHT

Airlines Clean Water Tanks Annually

  • Legally, airlines need to clean their water tanks only once a year or test frequently, which is a weak standard.
  • This regulation explains ongoing concerns about the cleanliness of airplane water despite safety measures.
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