The snake on the plane: Disney star's heroic action ends with a free drink

In an unusual incident on November 21, 2023, Virgin Airlines flight VA1482, traveling from Broome to Perth, Australia, was delayed after passengers realized there was a snake on board.

However, the story took a positive turn thanks to the quick intervention of a special passenger: Andre Rerekura, an Australian TV personality who appears in the Disney+ mini-series Shipwreck Hunters Australia.

The heroic action of the Disney star

Rerekura, a water cinematographer for the show, found himself face-to-face with a Stimson's python, a non-venomous species that had made its way into the airplane cabin.

"Honestly, I thought the snake was 'cute'," Rerekura confessed in an interview with ABC Australia.

However, when panic spread throughout the plane, the actor didn't hesitate to take charge. After hearing a woman scream and seeing the snake slither by his foot, he decided to step in.

"The whole plane was in shock, and it seemed like they were going to evacuate everyone," Rerekura said.

"No one wanted that to happen because everyone just wanted to get to their destination. It was such a weird story to hear, so people didn't really believe there was a snake on the plane." However, Rerekura got up from his seat, calmly grabbed the snake, and took it outside the aircraft.

Rerekura's actions were met with applause from the passengers

"I think everyone was relieved they didn't have to get off the plane. And a lot of people were happy the snake was safe," the TV host said.

A video Rerekura shared on his Instagram story shows passengers cheering as he raised his fist in victory. A flight attendant also commented over the intercom, "There's never a dull moment in aviation."

In recognition of his brave act, the airline offered him a free drink.

"The staff was amazing. They gave me a complimentary drink, I had soda water," he humorously remarked.

Virgin Australia confirmed that it was a non-venomous snake, and after its removal, the flight continued without further incident. The unusual event was quickly resolved thanks to the intervention of an unexpected hero.