Qantas aircraft grounded for deep clean after bed bug detection

Qantas has withdrawn one of its aircraft from its Perth to Rome route to undergo deep cleaning after bed bugs were detected on board, the airline confirmed. The aircraft will remain grounded until the pest control treatment and thorough cleaning procedures are completed to the airline's standards.

The discovery represents an ongoing challenge for international airlines, with bed bug infestations occasionally reported across the aviation industry regardless of carrier or service class. Airlines typically respond with immediate removal of affected aircraft and comprehensive sanitation measures.

Qantas said it is working to manage passenger bookings and minimise disruption caused by the aircraft's temporary withdrawal. The airline did not specify the exact timeline for the aircraft's return to service, stating only that it would resume operations once cleaning protocols were fully completed.

The incident comes as international travel continues to recover post-pandemic, with increased passenger volumes across global aviation networks. Qantas has previously maintained strict hygiene and sanitation procedures across its fleet to ensure passenger safety and comfort.