Flights vulnerable to infestation by insects, admits BA

BRITISH Airways has admitted that flights are “vulnerable” to insect invasion after a deadly spider bit a member of cabin crew.

Flight attendant Terry O’driscoll, 50, was bitten on his finger while relaxing in the crew rest area during a BA flight from Heathrow to Denver, Colorado, in May 2013.

An expert said a venomous American native, the brown recluse spider, was a likely culprit.

The steward told Central London County Court that several days later he panicked when his left hand swelled dramatically, and he checked into hospital near his home in Cork. Intensive treatment fought off the infection and Mr O’driscoll’s hand was saved.

Mr O’driscoll claimed damages from British Airways for failing to keep safe his place of work.

BA denied all fault, suggesting that Mr O’driscoll could have been bitten anywhere. Its lawyers said international flights were “vulnerable” to insect infestation.

Judge Jackson found in favour of Mr O’driscoll and awarded him £13,000 compensation.