A Virgin Atlantic co-pilot was arrested at Heathrow Airport on suspicion of being under the influence of alcohol, but later released on bail.
The flight containing 266 passengers was bound for Miami, but was delayed while substitute crew members were found after police arrested the man shortly before take-off on Sunday.
The man, who was part of a three-person flight crew, has been suspended from duty pending a police investigation.
In a statement the airline said: “Virgin Atlantic can confirm that one of its first officers has been released on police bail in connection with an allegation made this morning.
“The relief First Officer was onboard flight VS5 Heathrow to Miami. The flight subsequently departed Heathrow with a replacement flight deck crew.
“Virgin Atlantic would like to apologise for the inconvenience caused and would like to reassure passengers that the airline will be investigating this matter thoroughly in accordance with its strict company policies in relation to operational staff.”
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