Federal Aviation Administration warns of exploding coffee filters in planes

A new warning was issued about pre-packaged coffee filters used on many airlines.

The Federal Aviation Administration reports several cases of crew members and passengers suffering burns from exploding coffee filters.

The reported explosions happened when filters were not placed in the coffee pot just right. Officials say that pressure can build in the coffee pot, causing an explosion.

Several cases of bursting java filters have caused flight crew and passengers to suffer first- and second-degree burns, according to a CNN report .

"The coffee filter containing the hot coffee grounds can burst causing burns to the face, neck, hands, arms and torso in varying degrees of severity," a FAA safety alert said. The FAA issued the alert and sent it to airlines and aircraft operators on Jan. 3.

The FAA recommends that flight crews make sure the filter packages aren't folded and that they are installed correctly before starting the brew.

Federal officials are asking air carriers to add new warnings to training manuals about the potential hazard.

To read the full CNN report, go to http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/09/travel/volatile-airline-coffee-filters/ .