Passengers recoil after something disturbing appears on an airport baggage carousel

Travelers at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport were met with an unsettling scene when raw deer meat spilled across a baggage carousel. The incident occurred in Terminal 4 after a cooler tipped over, sending blood and venison onto the moving belt as luggage continued to circulate.

According to BroBible, a video of the spill quickly spread online, drawing widespread attention and amassing more than 18 million views. Passengers waiting for their bags appeared confused and alarmed as suitcases rolled through the mess before airport staff intervened, adding to a growing list of viral airport moments that have frustrated travelers in recent months, including cases where travelers are furious over unexpected fees suddenly appearing on airport receipts.

The footage was recorded by Robert Ramos, who expressed disbelief that the carousel was still operating while meat and blood covered the area. Ramos said he immediately checked to ensure his own luggage had not yet appeared on the belt as other passengers looked on.

It was technically allowed, but still went very wrong

While most baggage problems involve delays or lost luggage, this incident stood out due to the nature of the contents. Baggage mishandling remains relatively common, with industry data showing 5.5 out of every 100 bags mishandled in 2024, totaling roughly 2.7 million bags.

Online reaction focused on how the meat was allowed through airport screening in the first place. Many commenters pointed out what they viewed as inconsistencies in security rules, echoing broader frustrations about modern air travel that have also surfaced in viral debates like a Pilates instructor’s plane stretch that left people questioning the realities of flying economy.

The explanation is that transporting meat is permitted under existing rules. The Transportation Security Administration allows travelers to pack meat and other non-liquid food items in both checked and carry-on luggage, provided frozen items remain fully frozen during screening. International travel introduces additional restrictions depending on destination and origin.

Hunters familiar with flying with game meat note that proper packaging is essential. Containers should be easy for security staff to inspect but capable of being resealed securely, as failures can occur when coolers are not properly closed after inspection.

An airport spokesperson confirmed the spill took place and said maintenance crews shut down the carousel and cleaned the area shortly after. A former baggage handler at the airport later commented that similar incidents have happened before, adding that hard-sided luggage is easier to clean if exposed to spills.