The diversion, in line with SAS safety protocols, was deemed necessary as the rodent posed a potential risk to the aircraft’s electrical wiring.

Passengers were later flown to Malaga on a separate aircraft. SAS spokesperson Oystein Schmidt emphasized the rarity of such incidents and assured that the airline is reviewing its procedures with suppliers to prevent similar occurrences.

Passenger Jarle Borrestad, who witnessed the mouse’s escape, described the situation as calm, although he admitted to taking precautions by putting his socks over his trousers.

The diversion added only a few hours to the journey.

This incident follows a similar rodent-related disruption last week when a train service in southern England was halted after two squirrels boarded a carriage, with one refusing to disembark.