Qantas cancels Rome-to-Perth flight after bed bug outbreak

Disruption overview

Passengers returning from Rome to Perth faced delays of up to 2 days after Qantas grounded a Boeing 787 Dreamliner for deep cleaning and canceled QF6 on 10 October 2026. The bed bug outbreak came to light when travelers on QF5 from Perth to Rome on 9 October reported bites to cabin crew, with some receiving antihistamines before supplies ran out. Qantas said a small number of economy seats were affected and provided accommodation while rebooking passengers on flights within 48 hours of their original departures. If your canceled flight was from Rome, you may qualify for up to US$650 compensation under EC 261.

Disruption details

Qantas canceled flight QF6 from Rome, Italy, to Perth, Australia, on 10 October 2026 after a bed bug outbreak on the Boeing 787 Dreamliner operating the route. The aircraft was taken out of service for a deep clean after passengers reported bites on the outbound flight.

For passengers waiting to return to Perth, this meant an unexpected stay in Rome and delays of up to 2 days. If you were affected, the cancellation meant rearranging your journey home while waiting for an alternative flight.

The problem emerged on QF5 from Perth to Rome on 9 October 2026. Passengers told cabin crew they'd been bitten, and some received antihistamines. Those supplies eventually ran out.

Qantas said the outbreak affected a small number of economy seats. The aircraft's removal from service then led to the cancellation of the return QF6 service the following day.

Affected passengers were rebooked on alternative flights departing within 48 hours of their original departure times. Qantas also provided accommodation while they waited.

Bed bugs aren't considered a public health hazard and don't spread disease. However, their bites can cause itching and disrupt sleep—an uncomfortable experience for passengers on a long flight.

If you were booked on the canceled Rome-to-Perth service, you may be entitled to compensation under EC 261, the EU's air passenger rights rules. The flight was due to depart from Italy, so these protections can apply even though Qantas is an Australian airline.

The cancellation involved aircraft cleanliness and maintenance, rather than an event outside the airline's control. Affected passengers may therefore qualify for up to US$650 compensation, depending on their flight and individual circumstances.

Compensation isn't your only protection. If your flight's canceled, you're entitled to an alternative flight or a refund if you no longer wish to travel. Care during a lengthy wait can also include food, refreshments, and accommodation when an overnight stay is needed.

If the QF6 cancellation disrupted your trip, you can use AirHelp's free flight checker to find out whether you're eligible for compensation in just 2 minutes.

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