‘Much loved’ Virgin Atlantic engineer killed after being crushed by airplane machinery at Heathrow

An aircraft engineer died after he was crushed while fixing a Boeing at Heathrow Airport.

Georgie Buxton, who was employed by Virgin Atlantic, was taken to hospital for treatment to serious injuries, but died on July 7.

He was working on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner in one of the UK’s busiest airports’ hangars when the machinery collapsed on him.

Officers were called at 8.49am on June 11 to reports that a man had been injured at Heathrow Airport, the Metropolitan Police

He was placed on life support before it was switch off just three weeks after the incident.

The ‘much loved’ technician announced his joy at joining the airline after leaving Ryanair in 2024.

‘I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as an Aircraft Technician at Virgin Atlantic,’ he wrote on social media.

‘It’s been a pleasure working with all the engineers and mechanics whilst at Ryanair in Stansted and I’ve been able to develop and learn a lot.

‘Now it’s time to move on so I can develop and learn more on different airframes.’

Officers from the Met’s Aviation Policing Unit and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are investigating the incident, the Met Police said.

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said in a statement: ‘We are heartbroken to confirm that a much-loved member of our engineering team has passed away.

‘Our thoughts are firmly with Georgie’s family, loved ones, friends and colleagues at this incredibly sad and challenging time.

‘We’re providing support to loved ones wherever we can and sharing our heartfelt condolences to everyone affected.

‘Georgie’s family has asked for privacy at this very difficult time.’

The spokesperson added: ‘The safety and wellbeing of our people is always our top priority, and we are devastated by this incident.

‘We are working closely with relevant authorities and the aircraft manufacturer on the investigation to establish all facts.

‘Out of respect for those involved and while the investigation is ongoing, we are unable to provide any further information at this stage.’