Airport Fueling: Safety Checks For Travelers

Filling up your water bottle at an airport has become a common practice for travellers, with many airports installing bottle-filling stations near bathrooms and water fountains. These stations are designed to be easy to use and hygienic, with some featuring hands-free, automatic sensors that eliminate the need for germ-transmitting levers or buttons. While some travellers express concerns about the safety and cleanliness of these stations, others find them convenient and environmentally friendly, especially when compared to the alternative of purchasing expensive bottled water. The availability and quality of these filling stations vary across airports worldwide, with some travellers praising their convenience and others lamenting their absence or difficulty in locating them.

Filling stations are more hygienic than drinking fountains

Filling stations are much more hygienic than drinking fountains. Airports are increasingly installing filling stations to provide passengers with safe and clean drinking water.

Drinking fountains, especially in older buildings, are often old and corroded, with an unpleasant taste of rusty metal. The water is also unfiltered, and the handles and sink of the fountain are common areas for bacterial growth, as people spit and pour out old beverages and food remains.

Filling stations, on the other hand, are designed with hygiene in mind. They are equipped with hands-free and touchless features, reducing the risk of cross-contamination. Many stations use sensors or electric eyes to automatically stop the flow of water, eliminating the need for buttons or levers that can transmit germs. Some stations also incorporate antimicrobial technologies, such as copper taps, to prevent the spread of microorganisms.

The availability of filling stations also encourages the use of reusable water bottles, reducing the environmental impact of single-use plastic water bottles.

While drinking fountains may be present in some airports, filling stations offer a more hygienic and sustainable option for travellers. With the focus on hygiene, especially in the post-COVID era, filling stations are a welcome addition to airport amenities, providing passengers with convenient access to clean and safe drinking water.

The water is free

A growing number of airports are now installing bottle-filling stations for thirsty travellers near bathrooms and water fountains. The water is free. This is part of an effort to find more sustainable ways to manage crowds and the empty bottles they leave behind. It also improves airport amenities.

The installations are already in place at smaller airports like Portland, and at major hubs, including Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Philadelphia and San Francisco. The water is filtered in some locations.

The bottle-filling stations are hands-free and ergonomically designed to fit water bottles. Travellers can place a water bottle under a spout with an automatic sensor that stops the flow of water when the bottle is full. This eliminates the need for any levers or buttons where germs or bacteria can be transmitted. Some airports purchase stations with a push button instead.

Some airports have up to forty water-filling stations. They can be found on maps of the airport, and are often located near the bathrooms.

The water is filtered in some locations

However, not all airports have water filling stations. For example, in 2024, Boston Airport was criticised for not having water filling stations, with some claiming that the airport authorities prioritised profits for vendors over protecting the environment. In response, some people pointed out that there were water fountains and filling stations at Boston Airport.

Some travellers have also observed that not all airports have hydration stations. In such cases, travellers can fill their water bottles in the bathroom sink, ask a bar or restaurant to fill their bottles, or bring their own sanitising agents.

Stations are hands-free to prevent germ transmission

A growing number of airports have installed bottle-filling stations near bathrooms and drinking fountains. These stations are part of an effort to find more sustainable ways to manage crowds and improve airport amenities. The water is free and filtered in some locations.

Manufacturers like Elkay and Oasis have developed hands-free bottle-filling stations that are ergonomically designed to fit water bottles. These stations feature an automatic sensor or electric eye that turns the water on and off without the need for levers or buttons, reducing the risk of germ transmission. Some airports also offer stations with a push-button option.

The hands-free design eliminates the need for physical contact with the station, minimising the risk of transmitting germs or bacteria. This feature is particularly important in high-traffic areas like airports, where thousands of travellers pass through daily. By reducing physical contact with shared surfaces, the risk of spreading illnesses is decreased.

The bottle-filling stations are designed to be easy to use. Travellers simply place their water bottle under the spout, and the automatic sensor detects the bottle and starts the water flow. Once the bottle is full, the sensor stops the water flow, ensuring a hands-free and hygienic experience.

In addition to the hands-free technology, regular cleaning and maintenance of these stations is crucial. Some travellers report seeing cleaning staff sanitising the bottle-filling stations frequently, which further enhances the hygiene and safety of these facilities.

Overall, the hands-free design of airport bottle-filling stations plays a vital role in preventing the transmission of germs and bacteria. This innovation not only promotes sustainability and convenience but also contributes to a safer and healthier travel experience for all.

Filling stations are better for the environment

Filling stations at airports are becoming increasingly common, with many airports installing them to improve amenities and find more sustainable ways to manage crowds. These stations are beneficial for passengers who want to fill up their water bottles, but are they safe?

Most users of these stations have reported no issues, and some airports have cleaning staff that regularly clean the fountains. However, some travellers still have concerns about the safety of these stations, especially those with compromised immune systems. To address these concerns, travellers can bring sanitizing wipes to wipe down the fountain before use or use a sanitizing agent in the water.

Now, here are some reasons why filling stations are better for the environment:

Reducing Plastic Waste

The vast majority of plastic bottles end up in landfills, where they can take up to 500 years to decompose. By providing a means for people to reuse their bottles, filling stations help reduce plastic waste. This is especially important given that plastic use in Western Europe is growing at a rate of around 4% per year. In the UK alone, an estimated 5 million tonnes of plastic waste is generated each year, with the average UK family throwing out approximately 40 kg of plastic that could have been recycled.

Encouraging Reuse and Sustainable Practices

Filling stations encourage the use of reusable water bottles, teaching individuals the importance of sustainable living and their role in protecting the environment. This shift towards reuse and sustainable practices is essential in reducing our plastic footprint and creating a more environmentally-conscious society.

Cost Savings

In addition to the environmental benefits, filling stations also offer cost savings. Water in plastic bottles is 300 times more expensive than tap water, and when the water isn't fully consumed, the cost per gallon consumed is even higher. By using filling stations, individuals and organizations can reduce costs significantly.

Health and Well-being

Filling stations provide access to safe drinking water, which is essential for proper hydration, cognitive function, and overall health. They also promote a proactive approach to hydration, which is crucial for maintaining energy levels and reducing the risk of certain health issues.

Community Empowerment

Installing filling stations in public spaces, such as airports, sends a powerful message about the value of clean water, water resources management, and community investment. It fosters a sense of pride, unity, and responsibility, as individuals know they are contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future.

In conclusion, filling stations offer a range of benefits, from environmental advantages to cost savings and improved health. By embracing these stations, we can take a step towards a greener and more sustainable world.

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