Cracked windscreen: Passengers taken off flight at Dunedin Airport

An airline spokeswoman confirmed a "minor crack" was found in the aircraft's windscreen during a pre-flight check on the tarmac. File photo / 123rf.com

Passengers faced lengthy delays at Dunedin Airport yesterday, after a crack was discovered in the windscreen of a Virgin Australia flight bound for Brisbane.

An airline spokeswoman confirmed a "minor crack" was found in the aircraft's windscreen during a pre-flight check on the tarmac.

It was believed the damage occurred on the ground after the aircraft landed in Dunedin, and not during its earlier flight from Brisbane.

The discovery meant Flight VA119 from Dunedin to Brisbane, due to depart yesterday morning, was delayed, with its departure set for 12.30am today, she said.

The Otago Daily Times was told passengers had already boarded the aircraft and were waiting to depart when they were asked to disembark after the crack was found.

Those not based in Dunedin were offered accommodation for the day.

Virgin Australia apologised for the inconvenience, "but safety is always our No1 priority", the spokeswoman said.