Key facts
- A Qantas flight from Rome to Perth was cancelled on Saturday.
- Passengers on the previous flight from Perth to Rome reported being bitten by bugs.
- The Boeing 787 Dreamliner was grounded for a deep clean.
- Qantas apologized to affected customers and rebooked them on alternative flights within 48 hours.
- Affected customers were provided with accommodation.
A Qantas flight from Rome to Perth was cancelled on Saturday after an outbreak of bedbugs was identified on the aircraft. During the preceding flight on Friday, a nearly 17-hour journey from Perth to Rome, some passengers reported being bitten by bugs. They were reportedly given antihistamines, but supplies ran out.
A Qantas spokesperson stated that the Boeing 787 Dreamliner had to be grounded for a "deep clean." The airline issued an apology to customers for the cancellation of the Rome to Perth service, explaining it allowed for a thorough cleaning of the aircraft after the issue was discovered in a small number of economy seats.
All customers affected by the cancellation were provided with accommodation and rebooked on alternative flights, with the carrier ensuring they would depart within 48 hours of their original scheduled time. Bedbugs are described as small, wingless parasites that can infest clothing, furniture, and bedding, with their bites typically causing itching but not serious health problems, according to the NHS website. However, they can be difficult and costly to eradicate.