Overview
- An analysis of EPA-reported tests from Oct. 1, 2022 to Sept. 30, 2025 reviewed 35,674 aircraft sample locations across 21 U.S. airlines.
- The study found 949 coliform-positive results (2.7%) and identified 32 E. coli violations, factors that drove down several carriers’ Water Safety Scores.
- Delta and Frontier received the highest scores (A grades), with Alaska also rated well, while American and JetBlue ranked lowest among major airlines.
- Regional carriers largely underperformed, with GoJet leading the group, Mesa scoring the lowest, and CommuteAir logging a 33.33% coliform-positive rate.
- The Center for Food as Medicine & Longevity urges passengers to avoid onboard tap water, skip coffee and tea, and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, while American Airlines says its program complies with EPA rules.