The art of making coffee at 10,000 metres
The tempting aroma of freshly brewed coffee feels like a warm embrace, drawing us out of our sleepy state. But have you noticed that this fragrant temptation seems to disappear when you are kilometres up in the air? Making coffee on a plane is certainly a challenge. Many would consider it impossible or not worth the effort. But for true coffee lovers, where there is a will, there is a way. With the right knowledge, equipment and a little determination, you can enjoy your favourite brew even at 10,000 metres. Before beginning this adventure, let's look more closely at why regular airline coffee may not meet your expectations.
Choose your travel coffee maker
Choosing the right coffee maker for your flight is essential. There are many travel-friendly options. Here is a list of the best options combining portability, ease of use and brewing quality:
Wacaco Nanopresso or Wacaco Minipresso
- Advantages: Highly portable espresso makers that need no electricity. They have a built-in pump to provide the pressure needed for espresso.
- Disadvantages: They do not heat water.
- Perfect for: Espresso lovers on the go.
Cera+ Cerapresso
- Advantages:
- Brew several cups without recharging in between
- Convenience: Make coffee at the press of a button.
- Disadvantages:
- Battery restrictions: The machine has a built-in lithium battery and must comply with airline restrictions. Many airlines generally allow lithium batteries up to 100 Wh in hand luggage without special permission. Always check your specific airline's requirements before departure.
- Security checks: Even if allowed, travellers may need to demonstrate the machine's functionality at security checks, complicating their travel routine.
- Take care when using Cerapresso at high altitude. Lower air pressure means water boils at a lower temperature. Although Cerapresso heats water to 94°C, the boiling point at high-altitude locations can be as low as 90°C.
- Perfect for: Coffee lovers who prioritise consistent quality and maximum convenience.
Aeropress
- Advantages: Compact, durable, versatile in brewing methods and fast.
- Disadvantages: Requires some manual effort, which can be awkward in a confined space.
- Perfect for: People who enjoy experimenting with different brewing times and methods.
French press travel mug
- Advantages: Combines a French press and travel mug in one. Easy to use and also serves as a drinking vessel.
- Disadvantages: Requires a coarser grind, and the coffee stays in contact with the water, which can lead to over-extraction and bitterness if you do not drink quickly enough.
- Perfect for: Anyone who enjoys full-bodied coffee and wants to minimise hand luggage.
Collapsible silicone pour-over
- Advantages: Lightweight and collapsible. Gives you control over pouring speed and saturation.
- Disadvantages: Requires more attention during brewing, and you need a separate kettle or vessel for hot water.
- Perfect for: Anyone who enjoys the pour-over ritual and wants something that takes up minimal space.
Cafflano klassic
- Advantages: An all-in-one coffee maker combining a grinder, pour-over kettle, dripper and cup in one compact unit.
- Disadvantages: Slightly bulkier than other options and more expensive.
- Perfect for: Coffee lovers who prioritise freshness and want to grind beans immediately before brewing.
Surprising fact: The change in atmospheric pressure at high altitude can slightly change water's boiling point. This can subtly affect extraction.
Tip: Consider the available space.
Checklist for your coffee equipment
- Coffee beans: Although pre-ground coffee is convenient, bring your favourite fresh beans for the best flavour.
- Portable coffee grinder: A good grinder is essential for every brewing method.
- Water: The quality of the water you use can make or break your coffee. Bringing a bottle of water can help you get the best flavour.
- Heat source: Some airlines provide boiling water on request. You can ask a flight attendant for hot water for your coffee.
- Coffee filters: If you use a method requiring paper filters, such as an Aeropress or pour-over, remember to bring a few extra filters.
- Storage: Bring an airtight container or bag to keep your grounds or beans fresh.
- Cleaning supplies: It can be useful to bring paper towels or wipes to clean your coffee maker after use.
Brewing methods and techniques for flying
Making coffee at high altitude is not the same as at home. Changes in air pressure and possible differences in water temperature can affect extraction. Here are some recommendations:
- Grind your beans finer than usual. Lower air pressure at altitude can make water boil sooner, leading to faster extraction. A finer grind can help counter this.
- Try slightly shortening your brew time to prevent over-extraction. As water quality and temperature can vary, experimenting with brew time may help.
- Use fresh, filtered water. As mentioned earlier, airline water can have unwanted flavours. Consider bringing a bottle of mineral water for your coffee.
- Allow for limited space. Choose a brewing method suited to the space available on your tray table or at your seat.
Choose your coffee mug
Once you have made your perfect cup, you naturally want to drink it in style. Here are some considerations when choosing a mug for your flight:
- Insulation: A good thermal mug keeps coffee warm for longer, useful if you do not want to drink immediately.
- Material: Although glass or ceramic mugs are great at home, for a flight you will probably want a more durable material such as stainless steel.
- Size and shape: Consider the mug's size in relation to how much coffee you usually drink. It also needs to fit your aircraft seat's cup holder.
- Lid: A lid prevents spills and keeps coffee warm. Choose a mug with a reliable, secure lid.
Tip: Take your mug through security empty, then fill it with water or coffee from an airport café afterwards.
How does coffee taste at high altitude?
Did you know your taste buds can react differently on a plane than on the ground? The combination of low air pressure, dry air and aircraft background noise can affect taste and smell.
Bitter and salty flavours can be muted, while sweet and sour flavours may feel more intense. This can affect your coffee's taste. The dry cabin conditions can also dry out your mouth, changing how you taste coffee.
What does this mean for your coffee experience in the air? You may taste your coffee differently than usual. If you normally add sugar or sweeteners, you may want to start with less and adjust to taste.
Conclusion
Making coffee on a plane is a unique experience requiring some adjustment and flexibility. But with the right tools and knowledge, you can enjoy your favourite brew even at 10,000 metres. Next time you travel, you need not settle for mediocre airline coffee. With a little preparation, you can enjoy a delicious, personal coffee experience in the air. Here's to high-flying coffee adventures!
Note: Always follow the airline's safety rules and procedures when making and drinking coffee on board.
