Lorraine Williamson
An unexpected incident unfolded on an Iberia flight from Düsseldorf to Madrid when the pilot was bitten by a tarantula mid-flight. The Airbus A320 was en route to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport when the arachnid attacked the captain, who is reportedly allergic to spider venom.
Despite the alarming situation, the crew promptly administered Urbasón, a corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory properties, effectively managing the pilot’s allergic reaction. The flight continued without further complications and landed safely in Madrid.
Investigation into spider’s origin
Upon arrival, the aircraft underwent a thorough fumigation process to eliminate any remaining threats, leading to a three-hour delay for the subsequent flight to Vigo. Initial reports suggest that the tarantula may have boarded the plane during a layover in Casablanca, Morocco, earlier in the week. The aircraft had operated multiple routes, including stops in Brussels, Zurich, and Toulouse before the incident occurred.
Passenger reactions and airline response
Passengers awaiting the delayed flight to Vigo were initially informed that maintenance work was the cause of the delay. However, as details of the incident emerged, concerns grew among those boarding the aircraft. Many passengers were observed checking their seats and personal belongings for any signs of the spider. Iberia Airlines has confirmed that the pilot is in good health and that the aircraft has been thoroughly disinfected, resuming normal operations thereafter.
Understanding tarantula bites
Tarantula bites can cause pain, redness, and swelling at the site of the bite. While their venom is not considered dangerous to humans, it may trigger allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. In such cases, symptoms can include itching, swelling, and, in rare instances, more severe reactions.
Prevalence of tarantulas in Spain
In Spain, tarantulas are not commonly found. The term “tarantula” originally referred to the wolf spider species Lycosa tarantula, native to southern Europe, particularly around the Italian city of Taranto. However, in Spain, sightings of true tarantulas are rare, and the local spider fauna primarily consists of non-threatening species.
What to do if bitten by a tarantula
If bitten by a tarantula, it is advisable to:
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Clean the wound: Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water to prevent infection.
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Apply a cold compress: Use a cool cloth or ice pack on the bite area to reduce pain and swelling.
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Monitor for allergic reactions: Be vigilant for signs of an allergic response, such as increased swelling, itching, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention promptly if symptoms escalate.
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Avoid scratching: Refrain from scratching the bite to minimise the risk of infection.
While tarantula bites are uncommon and typically not serious, individuals with known allergies should exercise caution and consider carrying appropriate medication, such as antihistamines, when in areas where encounters with spiders are possible.