Passenger jet encounters snake incidence; specialist discloses potential means of invading aircraft
A unique and unexpected event unfolded at Melbourne Airport recently, as a 60cm green tree snake was discovered in the cargo hold of a Virgin Australia flight bound for Brisbane. This stowaway reptile caused a two-hour delay for VA337, as trained snake catchers were called to safely capture the animal[1].
Initially, the snake catcher, Mark Pelley, feared the snake might be venomous. However, upon closer inspection, it was revealed that the snake was harmless and native to the Brisbane region[1], suggesting it likely entered the plane via passenger luggage.
In such situations, staff may need to evacuate the aircraft if the snake could escape into inaccessible areas of the plane. Fortunately, in this case, the snake was swiftly captured by Mr. Pelley[1].
Snake stowaways on planes, particularly in Australia, are very uncommon occurrences. While there have been documented cases of snakes found on passenger jets globally, such as on flights in the U.S. and Southeast Asia, these incidents are rare[2]. In Australia, the risk is heightened given the presence of many venomous snakes, so caution and expert handling are priorities when any snake is discovered on a plane.
Once captured, the green tree snake was given to a Melbourne vet, with the ultimate goal being to find a home for the snake with a licensed snake keeper[1]. The animal, being a protected species, cannot be returned to the wild for quarantine reasons.
Mr. Pelley, a seasoned snake catcher, emphasised that snakes, particularly those in Australia, are fast-moving, thin, and agile[1]. Had the snake escaped and entered the aircraft's panels, it would have been extremely difficult to catch.
In summary, snake stowaways on Australian flights are rare but taken seriously. Professional handlers safely remove the reptile and ensure both passenger safety and the snake’s welfare[2]. This incident serves as a reminder for passengers to be vigilant about what they pack in their luggage, as even the smallest of creatures can cause unexpected delays.
References: [1] ABC News Australia, 2021. Snake found in cargo hold of Melbourne-Brisbane flight delays departure. [online] Available at:
In light of the rare occurrence of snake stowaways, passengers are encouraged to be cautious about what they pack in their luggage, as even small creatures can disrupt travel plans and cause unwanted delays. Furthermore, as warmer climates and lifestyle choices encourage more international travel, the potential for such encounters may increase, emphasizing the importance of vigilance.
