Qantas cancels Rome-to-Perth flight after passengers complain of painful bedbug bites.
Dubai: Australian airline Qantas has temporarily grounded one of its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft and cancelled a scheduled flight from Rome to Perth after several passengers complained of painful bedbug bites during an international journey.
The incident took place on October 9 aboard Qantas flight QF5, travelling from Perth to Rome. Several passengers reportedly experienced itchy and painful insect bites while onboard the aircraft.
Cabin crew provided first aid and antihistamines to affected passengers following medical advice. However, the available medication reportedly ran out, leaving some travellers without treatment for the remainder of the journey.
In response to the complaints, Qantas cancelled the aircraft’s scheduled return flight from Rome to Perth and removed the Dreamliner from service for a detailed inspection and pest control treatment.
The airline initiated extensive cleaning and disinfection procedures, including specialised treatment of affected economy-class seats, to eliminate the insects and prevent further infestations.
Qantas apologised to passengers for the inconvenience and discomfort caused by the incident.
The airline also arranged alternative accommodation for stranded travellers and confirmed that affected passengers would be rebooked on other flights within 48 hours of their original scheduled departure.
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner was expected to remain grounded until the necessary cleaning, inspection and pest treatment procedures were completed.
