An unusual incident unfolded on an Australian domestic flight when a stowaway snake delayed the journey for two hours. On July 2, 2025, Virgin Australia Flight VA337 was set to depart from Melbourne to Brisbane when a harmless green tree snake was discovered in the cargo hold.
- Flight delayed two hours due to stowaway snake
- Harmless 2-foot green tree snake discovered
- Snake catcher initially thought it was venomous
- Snake likely came from passenger's luggage
- Snake cannot be returned to the wild
- Most venomous snakes are native to Australia
Snake catcher Mark Pelley responded swiftly, initially mistaking the snake for a venomous species. Fortunately, he managed to capture it on his first attempt, preventing a potential evacuation of the aircraft. The snake likely hitched a ride in a passenger’s luggage and escaped during the earlier flight.
This incident raises questions about wildlife management in air travel. How can airlines better prepare for such surprises? Consider the following:
- Wildlife awareness among passengers could help prevent similar occurrences.
- Airlines might need enhanced protocols for dealing with unexpected animal encounters.
- Education on local wildlife can promote safer travel experiences.
As air travel continues to connect global destinations, it’s crucial for airlines and passengers alike to remain vigilant about wildlife interactions. Will we see more proactive measures in the future?
