A KLM Boeing 787-9 operating a service from Amsterdam to Mexico City was forced to divert to Bermuda due to the smell coming from pigs in the cargo hold on 16 December 2024. KLM flight KL685, operated by a Boeing 787-9, was performing a regular scheduled service from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS). The flight was bound for Mexico City International Airport (MEX).
As well as its 259 person passenger complement, the flight was carrying 100 pigs in the cargo hold. As the flight transited the Atlantic Ocean near Bermuda, flight crew reported a strong smell emanating from the cargo hold. Following the report, they elected to make a precautionary diversion to Bermuda.
An emergency was not declared, and the diversion was conducted under normal operating procedures. The flight subsequently landed without further incident on runway 12 LF Wade International Airport (BMA), Bermuda. The landing was completed approximately 45 minutes after the diversion was initiated.
During the layover in Bermuda, KLM passengers were transferred to hotel accommodation. The 100 pigs were also offloaded from the aircraft. The Bermuda government said in a statement: The animals’ welfare is a priority. The Government Veterinarian, Dr Jonathan Nisbett, and animal wardens from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources have been attending to the pigs. They ensured they are well cared for while further arrangements are made.
Ongoing discussions with KLM Cargo aim to secure a relief flight to transport the pigs to their final destination in Mexico. However, if delays persist, the pigs will need to be released from their crates to ensure their wellbeing. This co-ordinated effort reflects the island’s commitment to caring for all visitors – whether they walk on two legs or trot on four, the government statement concluded.
The aircraft conducting the KL685 service to Mexico City was a Boeing 787-9, registered PH-BHA. This is a 9.2 year old wide-body aircraft belonging to the carrier KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. It has been in operational service with the airline since its initial delivery from the factory in December 2015.
