Qantas flight grounded after bedbug infestation reported by passengers

A Qantas Boeing 787 Dreamliner flight from Rome to Perth was cancelled on Saturday following reports of a bedbug infestation. The issue surfaced after passengers on an earlier 17-hour flight from Perth to Rome reported being bitten by the insects while seated in the economy cabin.

During the flight to Rome last Friday, some affected passengers required antihistamines to treat itching, but the aircraft's supply of the medication was reportedly exhausted during the journey. In response to the complaints, Qantas grounded the aircraft to undergo an extensive deep cleaning process. The airline issued a formal apology to passengers for the resulting cancellation of the return service.

The airline confirmed that the infestation was localized to a small number of seats in the economy section. Maintenance teams were deployed to address the situation, ensuring the aircraft meets necessary hygiene standards before returning to service.