Nothing new. The CDC issued a report in the mid-1990's regarding the abysmal quality of water in the holds of aircraft. The fecal coliform levels were off the charts. Further, they determined there was no easy and consistent method to disinfect the holding tanks so they advised to avoid the water altogether.

Also in the CDC report - don't drink the coffee or tea made on board as at 10,000 ft, water does not reach sufficient temperature for long enough duration to kill all bacteria, viruses and parasites. That's why most airlines provide bottle water and bring aboard coffee now. Tea drinkers are just SOL.

Now if you really want to get the willies, you should see the swab studies on arm rests, seats, entertainment controllers and seat back tables.

Ignorance is bliss...

quote:

you should see the swab studies on arm rests, seats, entertainment controllers and seat back tables.

And your computer keyboard.

Dave

quote:

Originally posted by nopride2:

quote:

you should see the swab studies on arm rests, seats, entertainment controllers and seat back tables.

And your computer keyboard.

Dave

Or your toothbrush you leave on the counter

Color me paranoid. After a couple of bouts of "travelers Flu" I now wipe down everything I can reach when seated.

When i fly cheaper economy european airlines i always seem to get a throat or chest infection for a week after

Got a horrid chest infection on my latest trip … 14 hours in one airliner might have had something to do with it ..

It may not help much, but I always bring my Clorox wipes and wipe down my arm rests, controller and tray.

Wife and I spent about 2 days flying over to Africa, seven plus weeks there and about 2 days flying back. No illness at all. Took a few anti-biotics chased with Gin, in her case and whisky in mine.

quote:

Originally posted by scruffy:
Got a horrid chest infection on my latest trip … 14 hours in one airliner might have had something to do with it ..

When I was still actively an international airline pilot I did not describe it as: “a sealed aluminum can full of bacteria at 35,000’” for nothing.

BTW: I always carried and used “Clorox Wipes” as well.......did not work 100% but helped.
- Mike

A commercial aircraft is a winged Petri dish for bacteria and viruses. You generally fly without protection!

If you guys think this is bad, imagine what happens on a cruise ship!

You won’t catch me dead on one of these.

quote:

Originally posted by Dall85:
A commercial aircraft is a winged Petri dish for bacteria and viruses. You generally fly without protection!

And that recirculated air ensures everyone is exposed.

Grizz

Shows how our resistance has been reduced to zip.

I would never imagine drinking airplane water! I always keep one of their little water bottles for brushing my teeth.

I suppose I’ve picked up a few chest colds while flying.

Seriously what is the alternative to Airplanes?

Don’t drink the water or eat, clean everything with a clorox wipe but you still have to fly.

Mike

Fly First Class and drink champagne

quote:

Originally posted by Saeed:
Fly First Class and drink champagne

Wonder what water Emirates uses in their first class shower

Mike