Last updated at 6:12 PM on 20th June 2011
Horrified families looked on as an illegal immigrant slashed his throat as he was being deported on a plane.
Emergency services only prevented more serious injury by 'gluing' his throat together.
A source said he used a small razor, which he had hidden from cabin staff, to cut himself.
He was taken to hospital after today's Virgin Atlantic flight from London Gatwick to Kingston, Jamaica, was postponed.
Passengers, who watched in in horror as the incident took place, have been offered counselling by the airline.
Slashed: An illegal immigrant forced a Virgin Atlantic flight from London Gatwick to Kingston, Jamaica, to be postponed after he cut his throat on the plane as he was being deported
The Boeing 747-400 aircraft was carrying 449 passengers and 17 crew.
A Virgin Atlantic spokesman said: 'Virgin Atlantic confirms flight VS69 from London Gatwick to Kingston has been delayed until 12.45pm on June 21 following a passenger incident.
'The aircraft which was due to depart at 12.45pm on June 20 was met by the relevant authorities and the passenger was taken to hospital for treatment.'
He added: 'The safety and welfare of our crew and passengers is Virgin Atlantic's top priority.
'Virgin Atlantic is cooperating with the authorities in their investigation of the incident and is offering counselling support to passengers and crew.
'All passengers on board the plane have been provided with hotel accommodation, refreshments and meals until the flight departs tomorrow.
'Any passengers who wish to change their flights will be able to do so.'
A UK Border Agency spokesman said the man, who was taken to hospital with what it described as 'superficial injuries' had been treated and discharged.
He was then returned to immigrant custody. An investigation into the incident has now been launched.
Treatment: The man slashed his throat on a flight from London Gatwick Airport
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