Qantas Grounds Perth–Rome Jet After Suspected Bed Bug Bites
A Qantas Boeing 787 flying from Perth to Rome was grounded in Rome after passengers reported suspected bed bug bites. The return flight was canceled for deep cleaning and fumigation, and travelers were accommodated or rebooked, generally within 48 hours. The incident disrupted long-haul travel plans.
Qantas flight QF5, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, was operating a nonstop Perth–Rome service on Friday 9 October 2026. Reports say passengers in the forward economy cabin noticed itchy bites during the roughly 17-hour trip. Crew supplied allergy medication after medical guidance, but reports said stock was exhausted before touchdown. After arrival at Rome Fiumicino, the aircraft was withdrawn for inspection.
The return Rome–Perth leg was cancelled the next day for intensive cleaning and pest treatment. Qantas reportedly provided lodging in Rome, transport and food assistance, then rebooked travellers on other flights, usually inside two days. The disruption affected leisure and business plans at the close of Europe’s busy summer and early autumn season.
Travellers on long-haul routes with limited frequencies may face cascading delays when one aircraft is removed from service. The episode could heighten passenger anxiety about cabin cleanliness and insect exposure, especially on overnight or multi-hour flights. It may also prompt airlines to review cleaning and pest-control protocols, potentially adding operational costs and turnaround time. For Perth–Rome passengers, effects may include lost holiday or work days, rebooking stress, and uncertainty, though most disruptions were reportedly resolved within about