Can You Request Sealed Bottled Water on Flights?
When traveling by air, the concern over the quality of drinking water provided on board is not uncommon. Many passengers wonder if they can request sealed bottled water at any time during their flight. This article explores the availability and options for sealed bottled water on flights and provides insights into what passengers are entitled to depending on their flight class and airline.
Requesting Sealed Bottled Water on Flights
Yes, you can generally request sealed bottled water from flight attendants during your flight. Most airlines provide bottled water to passengers, especially during longer flights. However, the availability and supply may vary depending on the airline and the specific flight. Flight attendants are usually accommodating and understand that passengers may have preferences regarding their beverages. Just be polite when making your request!
What You Are Entitled to on a Flight
The entitlements to water and other amenities on a flight depend on several factors, including the class you're sitting in and the specific airline you're using.
Super-Budget Airlines
Super-budget airlines such as RyanAir or EasyJet are focused on cost-cutting. Even for these carriers, the procurement of water is usually in bottles. These airlines may sell bottled water onboard, and while this is convenient, it comes at an additional cost. However, the water itself is safe for consumption.
Bigger “Traditional” Carriers
Bigger, more established airlines, or "traditional" airlines, typically offer bottled water for free in certain classes. If you're flying in business or first class, you can basically get whatever you want, including bottles of water. In coach class, you can get bottled water, but it's dispensed in plastic cups from large bottles. While personal 1.5-liter bottles are not provided, you can request cups of bottled water at any time when the flight service is open. However, this availability is not always guaranteed, especially on longer flights.
Shorter Flights
On very short and small flights, airlines sometimes opt to provide small bottles of water to avoid overwhelming a single flight attendant with water requests. These bottles are usually around 230 ml and are intended to be quick and efficient.
Water Safety on Planes
While concerns about water safety on flights are understandable, the water served in the aircraft is generally safe. It's important to note that the water provided for drink service is different from the water available from the bathroom taps, which are not intended for drinking.
Alternative Water Sources
If you’re particularly worried about the quality of the water, here are some alternative options:
Research Airport Water Sources
Before boarding, check the airport's water sources. If you’re in a country with safe drinking water, look for drinking fountains at the airport. You can bring an empty water bottle through security and fill it at a drinking fountain before boarding the plane.
Purchase Bottled Water Before the Flight
In countries where drinking fountains are not available, bottled water is usually available in airports, often at a reasonable price. For example, in Istanbul, I found water bottles for less than 1 USD.
Conclusion
In summary, you can request sealed bottled water from flight attendants during your flight, but availability and options may vary depending on the airline and flight class. By researching airport water sources and considering bottled water purchases before the flight, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey.