A family from Virginia has launched a federal lawsuit against two major airlines, seeking $200,000 in damages after a horrifying transatlantic journey they claim was overrun with bed bugs.
Business-Class Nightmare: Bites and a Cover-Up Allegation
Ophthalmologist Romulo Albuquerque and his wife Lisandra Garcia, along with their two sons, were travelling in business class from Atlanta to Amsterdam. According to legal documents, their premium experience turned into a nightmare as they suffered numerous insect bites during the flight.
The family alleges that when they raised the issue with cabin crew, they were urged to keep quiet. The lawsuit states that flight attendants asked them to lower their voices to avoid causing panic among other passengers and to ensure the family made their connecting flight without disruption.
Lasting Scars and a Ruined Vacation
The consequences of the incident were severe. The bites caused significant physical pain and an "unrelenting itchy feeling", leading to medical expenses for treatment. Perhaps more devastating was the impact on their holiday, which was effectively ruined by the experience.
The legal complaint details that the family has been left with lasting scars, both physical and emotional, from the traumatic event aboard the aircraft.
Airlines Respond to the Legal Claim
In responses to the allegations, the airlines involved have taken a cautious stance. A Delta Air Lines spokesman, in an email on Friday, said the allegations relate to flights not operated by Delta. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines declined to comment on the specific claims.
Both carriers stated they would review the formal complaint thoroughly and respond through the appropriate legal channels. The lawsuit was filed in a federal court and reviewed by The Independent.
The case highlights serious concerns about health and safety standards on long-haul flights and the duty of care airlines owe to their passengers, regardless of the cabin class they purchase.
