A Virgin Atlantic flight bound for New York has been forced to return to London Heathrow following a “laser beam incident”, according to the airline.

The carrier reported a “medical issue with one of the pilots after a laser incident after take-off”, forcing the plane to make an unscheduled landing in London.

The incident occurred at 20:13 on Sunday, shortly after take-off.

Flight VS025 had 252 passengers and 15 crew on board.

The incident took place seven miles west of Heathrow, with Virgin Atlantic working with the authorities to identify the source of the laser.

Passengers were accommodated overnight at the airport and are expected to complete the journey today.