Airplane bathrooms and water among dirtiest areas on flights, experts say

Flying can be a convenient way to travel, but it can also be a breeding ground for germs and bacteria. According to flight attendants, various airplane surfaces such as overhead bins, tray tables, instruction cards, and seat covers are some of the biggest sources of germs. Even the water in the bathroom can pose a risk, leading some to question whether it’s sanitary to wash their hands on a flight.

Flight attendant Josephine Remo advises passengers to use hand sanitizer after touching surfaces like overhead bins and going to the bathroom. Bathrooms can be particularly dirty, as the toilets are regularly cleaned, but the locks and door handles may not be. In fact, very little cleaning happens between most domestic flights, according to travel expert Gary Leff.

The water in airplane bathrooms can contain contaminants, as shown by a 2019 study that revealed potential issues with drinking water on certain airlines. The federal Aircraft Drinking Water Rule requires airlines to provide safe drinking water to passengers and crew, but some airlines have received low scores for water quality.

Leff notes that cleaning on planes can vary between airlines and classes of service, with cleaning often sacrificed when flights are running late or airlines are facing financial struggles. He advises passengers to bring their own sanitizer and consider wiping down surfaces they’ll be touching.

Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News’ senior medical analyst, also confirms that airplane bathrooms can be filthy, along with tray tables and other common surfaces. He recommends staying hydrated, using sanitizers, wipes, or gels, and washing hands thoroughly with soap when possible.

The EPA regulates aircraft drinking water to ensure safe and reliable drinking water for passengers and crew. The agency works with the FDA and FAA to oversee water quality on flights. The FAA focuses on aviation safety and does not regulate water quality, while OSHA’s role in this matter is unclear.

Overall, while flying can be a convenient way to travel, it’s important to be aware of the potential health risks and take precautions to protect yourself from germs and bacteria. By following the advice of experts and being mindful of cleanliness, you can help reduce the risk of getting sick while traveling.