KLM Flight Diverts Due To Smell Of Pigs
A KLM flight carrying 100 pigs diverted to Bermuda as the “distinctive aroma of 100 pigs traveling in the cargo hold prompted the flight crew to divert to Bermuda for a fresh-air break.
A spokesperson said, “LF Wade International Airport had an unexpected arrival yesterday evening when KLM flight 685, operated by a Boeing B787-9, traveling from Amsterdam [AMS] to Mexico City [MEX], made an unscheduled landing in Bermuda. The reason? The distinctive aroma of 100 pigs traveling in the cargo hold prompted the flight crew to divert to Bermuda for a fresh-air break.
“The 259 passengers and crew, who surely never expected their journey to go hog wild, were processed through immigration and are being accommodated at local hotels, thanks to the swift coordination between Skyport, local authorities, and Delta Air Lines, KLM’s airline partner. Meanwhile, the pigs—living high on the hog during their impromptu holiday stopover—are being cared for at a secure location on the island, with assistance from a government veterinarian.
“The Bermuda Government, Menzies, Delta Air Lines, and Skyport worked closely to ensure the pigs were treated humanely throughout the ordeal. This coordinated effort reflects the island’s commitment to caring for all visitors—whether they walk on two legs or trot on four.
“This unexpected event adds a curious chapter to Bermuda’s history. Wild pigs were among the island’s earliest settlers, their nighttime grunts mingling with the haunting calls of the Bermuda cahow to create eerie sounds that mystified early sailors. These echoes earned Bermuda the nickname “Devil’s Isle”—though today’s visitors seem far more angelic than devilish.
“Our team at Skyport is accustomed to managing all sorts of unusual situations, and today was no exception,” said a Skyport spokesperson. “Thanks to excellent collaboration between KLM, Delta Air Lines, and local partners, both our two-legged and four-legged visitors are safe and well cared for—even if this wasn’t quite the Christmas vacation they had planned.”
A spokesperson added, “The flight is scheduled to depart Bermuda tonight at 9:40 PM. Passengers are set to check in between 5:45 PM and 6:00 PM.
“Just missing yesterday’s Great Bermuda Carol-Off by a day [perhaps for the best], these surprise guests have added their own special note to the island’s holiday season. While their stay will be brief, they’ve certainly brought some unexpected Christmas cheer—and a few memorable aromas—to the island.”
