Passenger Transforms Economy Seat into Espresso Bar: Creative or Controversial?
A passenger on a recent flight made headlines by transforming their economy seat into a makeshift espresso bar. Equipped with a vacuum-sealed bag of coffee beans, a hand grinder, and a portable espresso maker, the individual set out to elevate in-flight coffee experience.
Creative or Controversial? The Espresso Bar on a Plane
Video footage of the passenger grinding coffee at their seat has sparked varied opinions online. Some viewers criticized the act, labeling it “insufferable at 35,000 feet” and suggesting it exemplified main-character syndrome. Others appreciated the aromatic experience of fresh coffee and considered asking for a shot themselves.
Rules of In-flight Coffee Preparation
From a coffee lover’s perspective, the act was innovative. As long as the equipment fits within personal item restrictions and doesn’t obstruct aisles or exits, there is nothing unsafe about the setup. However, the decision raises questions about social etiquette.
Past Instances of Artisan Coffee on Flights
This isn’t the first case of a passenger pursuing high-quality coffee inflight. A traveler on Emirates shared their experience making artisanal pour-over coffee for fellow passengers. His preparation drew attention from cabin crew and intrigued onlookers alike.
Challenges of Airplane Coffee
Airplane coffee has long faced criticism due to its quality. It is typically made with tank water, which many passengers find unappealing. Furthermore, onboard brewing methods struggle with the challenges posed by cabin pressure and temperature inconsistencies.
The Science of Brewing at Altitude
- Water boils at about 197°F at 8,000 feet due to cabin pressure, not the standard 212°F.
- This results in less efficient coffee extraction, affecting flavor quality.
- Low cabin pressure and humidity can diminish our perception of sweet and salty flavors by approximately 30%.
Some airlines have made strides to improve their coffee offerings. United Airlines upgraded their coffee service in 2016, moving to Illy coffee and even introduced cold brew options. Alaska Airlines partnered with Stumptown for a custom altitude blend, which has received positive reviews.
The Future of In-flight Coffee
Despite recent improvements, many passengers still seek gourmet coffee options while flying. A dedicated coffee cart could set an airline apart in the competitive travel market. Until then, those who bring their own coffee-making gear onboard continue to stand out as modern travel heroes.
