Mr Zelaya, who was removed from office by troops a week ago, says he is determined to return to his country.

Thousands of Zelaya supporters are reported to be heading to the airport and troops are on site

The presidents of Argentina, Ecuador and Paraguay and the head of the Organization of American States (OAS) have said they will fly to neighbouring El Salvador to monitor events from there.

Interim President Roberto Micheletti, meanwhile, has said troops from neighbouring Nicaragua are moving towards the Honduran border.

Hours before Mr Zelaya's departure from the Washington, Honduran Foreign Minister Enrique Ortez said the ousted president would not be allowed back in

landing of the plane which will bring the ex-president is banned,

Saturday the OAS suspended Honduras

Honduras itself appears divided between supporters of the ousted leader and those who back the authorities that removed him

Both sides have protested in recent days, but the demonstrations have remained largely peaceful.