Full Breakdown
Virginia Family Sues Delta and KLM Over Alleged Bed Bug Infestation
12/25/2025, 2:34:16 AM
Allegations of Infestation During Flight
A Virginia family is suing Delta Air Lines and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, alleging they were bitten by bed bugs during a transatlantic flight on March 21, 2025. The family, consisting of Romulo Albuquerque, his wife Lisandra Garcia, and their two children, claims that the infestation occurred on a KLM-operated flight from Atlanta to Amsterdam, following a Delta flight from Roanoke to Atlanta. The family is seeking $200,000 in damages for injuries and emotional distress caused by the alleged bites, which resulted in raised welts and rashes on their bodies.
According to the lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Virginia, the family purchased their tickets through Delta's SkyMiles program, with a total value of approximately $8,800. The complaint states that two hours into the KLM flight, Garcia felt bugs crawling on her and alerted the flight attendants, who allegedly advised them to keep quiet to avoid causing panic among other passengers. The family documented the incident with photos and videos, showing what they claim were bed bugs on their clothing and in the cabin.
Impact on Family Vacation
The lawsuit details the physical and emotional toll the incident took on the family. They reported experiencing discomfort, anxiety, and embarrassment due to visible bite marks. The complaint notes that the children suffered large red welts on their necks, torsos, and limbs, while Garcia and Albuquerque also experienced rashes. The family sought medical attention upon arrival in Belgrade, where a pediatric clinic confirmed the bites were from bed bugs and prescribed topical treatments.
The family’s vacation plans were severely disrupted, as they were unable to enjoy their time in Serbia. They had to wash their clothing in boiling water and dispose of infested items to prevent further spread of the insects. The complaint states that the visible marks on their skin caused embarrassment for the children, particularly when returning to school.
Official Responses from Airlines
Delta Air Lines responded to the allegations by stating that the claims pertain to flights not operated by them, indicating that they will review the complaint and respond accordingly. KLM has also refrained from commenting on the specific allegations but stated they would address the matter through appropriate legal channels.
Criticism of Airline Response
Critics have pointed out the airlines' handling of the situation, particularly the flight attendants' alleged instructions to keep the infestation quiet. Attorneys representing the family expressed frustration over the airlines' lack of response to settlement attempts, leading to the decision to file the lawsuit. They emphasized the need for accountability and fair treatment for the family.
What's Next
The case is currently pending in federal court, with both airlines expected to respond to the allegations. The outcome of the lawsuit could have implications for airline policies regarding passenger safety and cleanliness, particularly concerning pest control measures on flights.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Can [you] imagine being stuck on an airplane, which is basically like a tube, over the Atlantic in the middle of the night, being eaten by bugs and there's staff telling you, ‘Just keep it quiet, don't make a big deal’ because they didn't wanna create pandemonium on this aircraft?” — Matt Broughton, Attorney for the Albuquerque family.
- “As this pending litigation eventually states, the allegations at issue relate to flights not operated by Delta Air Lines. Delta will review the complaint and respond accordingly in due course.” — Delta Air Lines spokesperson.
- “Therefore, we filed suit to assert this deserving family’s legal rights, and we will continue to move forward until the family is treated fairly for what happened to them,” — Jared Tuck, Attorney for the Albuquerque family.
