Travelers alarmed by recent bedbug sighting on New York to Detroit flight

In a recent incident that raised concerns among air travelers, a passenger reported finding a bedbug on their leg during an American Airlines flight from New York City to Detroit. The discovery, shared on social media, has sparked discussions about the potential presence of bedbugs on commercial flights.

The passenger, who was seated in first class, posted about the experience on Reddit, stating, "Bedbugged on [a] flight today. Found this bedbug crawling on my leg mid-flight (LGA to DTW)." This account has led to questions about the prevalence of bedbugs on airplanes and the measures taken by airlines to prevent such occurrences.

Experts from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene offer reassurance, noting that bedbugs are "rarely found in planes, trains, and motor vehicles." However, they acknowledge that these pests can hitchhike on clothing and luggage, particularly in areas where travelers sleep.

The incident occurred almost one year after a widely reported bedbug infestation in Paris, which affected hotels, short-term rentals, and public transportation. While that outbreak was largely confined to the French capital, this recent airplane sighting has raised questions about the potential for broader spread through air travel.

According to the passenger's account, American Airlines' response to the situation was underwhelming. The plane reportedly continued its scheduled routes without being grounded for thorough inspection or treatment. American Airlines has not yet provided an official comment on the incident.

Despite the low risk of encountering bedbugs on flights, pest control experts suggest several precautionary measures for concerned travelers. Abell Pest Control recommends using seat covers designed for airplanes or movie theaters to create a barrier between passengers and potential hiding spots in seat crevices.

Additional suggestions involve storing carry-on items and personal belongings in sealed plastic bags to avoid cross-contamination with other bags. Some specialists recommend bringing personal pillows and blankets rather than using the ones given by the airline.