If you’ve ever hesitated before ordering coffee mid-flight, you’re not alone. For years, travelers and flight attendants alike have whispered the same cautionary phrase: “Never drink the coffee on a plane.” But is airplane coffee safe to drink, or is that warning just another travel myth?
A Food & Wine article reignited the conversation after a former flight attendant revealed that airplane tap-water tanks “are never cleaned.” She claimed the same water used for coffee and tea is connected to the lavatory system—something most travelers would rather not think about.
So what’s the real story? Let’s separate fact from fiction and explore what it means for anyone who truly loves a great cup of coffee.
The Lie: Is Airplane Coffee Really Dangerous?
Despite all the horror stories, airplane coffee isn’t necessarily unsafe. Water onboard must meet federal regulations through the EPA’s Aircraft Drinking Water Rule (ADWR), which requires airlines to regularly flush and disinfect their water systems. Most major carriers test and maintain their tanks several times a year to ensure they’re up to standard.
Plus, brewing coffee involves heat. Even at high altitude, the brewing temperature typically exceeds 190°F—hot enough to kill most bacteria. So while it won’t be an artisanal light-roast pour-over, your in-flight cup won’t send you to the emergency room.
The Truth: Why Airplane Coffee Tastes So Bad
Here’s where the warnings hold weight. Even if it’s technically safe, airplane coffee often tastes… well, bad. The culprit? Stale, mineral-heavy water that’s been sitting in holding tanks for days. Add in coffee that’s pre-ground, pre-measured, and brewed in bulk, and you’ve got a recipe for mediocrity.
Many flight attendants skip the plane coffee themselves, opting for bottled water or drinks made with pre-sealed ingredients. In short—it’s not going to harm you, but it’s not going to impress you either.
Clean Water = Better Coffee (and Why It Matters)
As coffee pros, we know one truth that applies everywhere. From airplanes to event espresso bars, water quality makes or breaks your brew. Up to 98 percent of your cup is water, so if it’s not fresh and balanced, the flavor will always fall flat.
That’s why at Espresso Dave’s Coffee Catering, every espresso shot starts with bottled spring water—crisp, clean, and chosen to bring out the best in our beans. Our baristas also clean and care for each machine themselves after every event. They take pride in every detail, from the first shot of the day to the final wipe-down. Because when you love what you do, it shows in every cup.
No mystery tanks. No shortcuts. Just craftsmanship, care, and coffee that tastes exactly the way it should.
Is Airplane Coffee Safe to Drink: the Lesson for Coffee Lovers
So, the next time you’re 35,000 feet in the air and craving caffeine, you can probably sip without fear—but don’t expect the same quality you’d get from your grounds on the ground. Think of airplane coffee as survival fuel, not a specialty brew.
And when you land? That’s your cue to reward yourself with something better. Whether it’s a creamy latte, a bold espresso, or a spiced seasonal drink, nothing beats coffee made with care, cleanliness, and craftsmanship.
That’s why with Espresso Dave’s Coffee Catering, you can taste the difference that quality water, skilled baristas, and a little coffee passion can make. Request a quote today and bring that fresh-ground flavor to your next event. No seatbelt required.
