A rat was caught on a Finnish airliner. (Photo/Chongqing Morning News)

(ECNS) -- Health inspectors caught a rat on a Finnish airliner after it arrived in Southwest China's Chongqing last Thursday.

The plane reported to Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport after a rat was spotted scurrying in the cabin.

Health inspectors in Chongqing boarded the plane and closed the cabin doors after passengers left.

Multiple traps were placed in the passenger and cargo cabins. Meat was also scattered to attract the animal.

Eighteen hours later, a rat measuring about 7cm was trapped in the dining room. The plane cabins were then fumigated with carbon dioxide and no more rats were found.

Lab tests showed that it was a female house rat and no viruses were found.

Rodents on planes pose grave risks, as they may damage equipment or chew wires resulting in disasters, aviation experts have said.

As to how the rat got aboard, health inspectors said it may have got in on a dining cart.