Question:-
There is a Hadith which states something to this effect that, a person should not consume food from where alcohol is served. In an airplane the water, soft drinks and juices come from the same place where alcohol is stored. Will it be permissible to have these in an airplane?
Answer:-
عن جابر، عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم، قال: من كان يؤمن بالله، واليوم الآخر فلا يجلس على مائدة يدار عليها الخمر وقال مرة أخرى: وإما قال: يشرب عليها الخمر
Jaabir Radiallahu Anhu narrates that Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi Wasallam is reported to have said, “Whoever believes in Allah and the last day should not sit upon a Dastarkhaan on which wine is circulated or consumed.”
This refers to eating voluntarily in a restaurant, hotel, or any venue where wine is served. However, a person doesn’t board a plane merely to enjoy a meal or drink beverages. The objective of boarding a plane is to travel to a destination which is either due to some worldly, or religious need. At times, it could take up to 12 hours or longer to reach one’s destination. During this time, one needs to eat, drink, and fulfill other needs as well.
There is no certainty that food served on airplanes is 100% Halaal hence, one should refrain from eating the food served on planes. Instead, one should carry their own food when travelling abroad. Generally, passengers are not permitted to carry water beyond the security check. Whilst travelling, passengers tend to get thirsty, particularly diabetic patients whose sugar levels aren’t under control and who require more water than others. Hence, there is no problem in drinking water or Halaal juice on the plane due to necessity, particularly when it is served in sealed bottles.
