From the company intranet…

Technical Fault with VS63 – 24 August 2006
While the plane was being boarded, it became apparent that there was a technical fault with the aircraft. Engineers believed the fault could be rectified without the need to ask passengers to leave the plane. Unfortunately, it became a rolling delay and the crew went beyond their legal operating hours.

The flight was then delayed until 11am today (Friday 25 August). Passengers were offered hotel accommodation for the evening, with free meals and telephone calls.

Media reports that there was a near-riot onboard are completely untrue.

We’d like to thank all staff who have worked through the night to resolve the situation so that our passengers can get away this morning.