In brief
A Qantas Boeing 787 en‑route from Perth to Rome reported a bed‑bug infestation, forcing the aircraft to be grounded for a thorough cleaning. Passengers received antihistamines but supplies ran short, and the cancelled Rome‑Perth service was re‑booked within 48 hours, with accommodations arranged. The incident follows a series of high‑profile bed‑bug claims in travel, prompting airlines to sharpen hygiene protocols. Qantas apologised and promised the issue would not recur.
Qantas flight grounded after bed‑bug outbreak
A Qantas flight from Italy to Australia was cancelled on Saturday after passengers complained of bed‑bug bites.
The nearly 17‑hour journey from Perth to Rome had an outbreak late on Friday. Several passengers reported itch and irritation, were given antihistamines, but the supply quickly ran out.
The aircraft was grounded for a "deep clean". Qantas said engineers and maintenance crews would undertake a thorough cleaning of the affected economy seats before the plane could resume service.
All affected customers received accommodation and were re‑booked on alternative flights within 48 hours, the airline confirmed. Qantas branded the incident as a unique problem and assured passengers that it would not recur.
Bed‑bugs are small, wingless parasites that can live on bedding, furniture and clothes. Their bites can cause itching but usually do not lead to serious illness.
Getting rid of an infestation often requires hot washing of all bedding and clothing, tumble drying, or placing items in a freezer for several days.
Travel disruptions caused by bed‑bugs are not new. In 2017 British Airways apologized to a family that arrived at London Heathrow covered in bites after a flight from Vancouver, and Turkish Airlines faced a PR scramble after reports of infestations on its aircraft. Similar incidents, such as a recent cancellation of southeastern train services in England, underscore the need for strict hygiene protocols in transport.
For more information on how to prevent and treat bed‑bugs, visit NHS Bed‑Bugs Guide.
