Why was a KLM flight from Amsterdam cancelled?

A KLM flight was cancelled because a large stowaway rat was discovered onboard the aircraft during its journey.

What happened to passengers on the cancelled KLM flight?

Passengers were provided with overnight accommodation and rebooked onto new flights to their destinations.

Is it safe to fly if a rodent is found on a plane?

Airlines take rodent discoveries very seriously due to potential risks to wiring and safety, often grounding and cleaning the aircraft.

Home / Disasters and Accidents / KLM Flight Cancelled Over 'Massive' Rat Discovery

KLM Flight Cancelled Over 'Massive' Rat Discovery

15 Dec, 2025

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Summary

A KLM flight was cancelled due to a large rat found onboard.
Passengers were accommodated overnight and rebooked on new flights.
The rodent was spotted during the flight over the ocean.

KLM Flight Cancelled Over 'Massive' Rat Discovery

A KLM Airbus A330, scheduled to carry 250 passengers from Amsterdam to Aruba and then Bonaire on December 10, experienced a significant disruption when a large rat was spotted onboard. The rodent was reportedly seen scurrying across a curtain pole during the flight over the Atlantic.

Upon disembarking in Aruba, the aircraft was grounded, leading to the cancellation of subsequent flights. KLM confirmed the incident, stating the plane was taken out of service for a thorough cleaning. Passengers affected by the cancellation were provided with overnight accommodation and arrangements for new flights.

The airline indicated that the pilot continued the route over the ocean due to the circumstances, but staff monitored the animal closely. This event echoes a past incident involving a Scandinavian Airlines flight where a rodent in a meal led to a diversion, highlighting the potential safety risks posed by such pests.