British Airways launched a one-week trial in June 2025, removing individual plastic water bottles from economy and premium economy cabins on certain long-haul flights. The trial covered routes between London Heathrow and Miami, Boston, and Los Angeles, with the goal of reducing single-use plastic waste. Passengers received water in paper cups served by cabin crew rather than bottled water.
The Rationale Behind the Trial
British Airways Airbus A380 jet taxiing for take off at London Heathrow airport | Photo: Ceri Breeze
British Airways explained the trial as part of its sustainability initiatives to cut plastic consumption. A spokesperson said, “This is a one-week trial on three routes as part of efforts to reduce plastic waste. The views of our customers are very important to us, and we’ll be listening very carefully to their feedback.”
The airline industry produces substantial global plastic waste each year. British Airways hoped this measure would help reduce its environmental footprint by eliminating individual plastic water bottles.
Passenger Reactions: A Mixed Bag
A passenger onboard British Airways Airbus | Photo: Wirestock
Passengers and industry observers responded differently to the trial. Some welcomed the environmental effort, seeing it as progress toward sustainability. Others suspected it was primarily a cost-saving measure presented as eco-friendly.
A FlyerTalk forum member shared, “There were no bottles of water they could give me as BA is trialling not offering any bottles of water for two weeks now.” The passenger continued, calling it “obviously a cost-saving exercise under the guise of saving the polar bears.”
Critics worried that paper cups might reduce comfort on long flights where hydration matters. Some questioned whether crew-served cups would increase workload for flight attendants and inconvenience passengers.
Industry Perspective: Balancing Sustainability and Service
British Airways Boeing 747 | Photo: JohnnyPowell
Airlines must reconcile environmental goals with passenger satisfaction. While cutting single-use plastics is positive, service quality must remain strong.
Experts proposed alternatives like water in recyclable cans or cartons, or encouraging reusable bottles filled at airport stations before boarding. These approaches might satisfy both sustainability aims and passenger needs.
Awaiting the Outcome
British Airways’ water bottle trial shows the airline’s environmental awareness, but passenger reactions reveal the need to balance eco-initiatives with comfort. As the airline evaluates feedback, it will determine whether to implement permanent changes or adjust its approach to better serve both sustainability and customer expectations.