A young Virgin Atlantic engineer has died after being crushed by machinery while working on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner at Heathrow Airport, triggering a joint investigation by police and the Health and Safety Executive.
Georgie Buxton, 23, suffered serious injuries at around 8pm on June 11 when heavy equipment collapsed on him inside one of the airport’s hangars. He was rushed to hospital and placed on life support, but his family made the heartbreaking decision to switch it off three weeks later, on July 7.
“Virgin Atlantic engineer Georgie Buxton, 23, died after being crushed by machinery while working on a Boeing 787 at Heathrow.”
Officers from the Metropolitan Police’s Aviation Policing Unit and the HSE are now investigating the incident. The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner has been taken out of service while experts try to determine how the tragedy occurred. Boeing has declined to comment.
Virgin Atlantic, which operates 17 Dreamliners, 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.”
The airline added that it is “working closely with relevant authorities and the aircraft manufacturer on the investigation” and that the safety of its people is its “top priority”.
Buxton had only recently joined Virgin Atlantic after leaving Ryanair in 2024. On social media, he wrote: “I’m happy to share that I’m starting a new position as an Aircraft Technician at Virgin Atlantic. It’s been a pleasure working with all the engineers and mechanics whilst at Ryanair in Stansted.”
He described himself as a “highly dedicated worker” with an “immense passion for aircraft engineering”.
An inquest into his death is due to be opened. The HSE confirmed it is investigating jointly with the Met Police, and Virgin Atlantic has asked for privacy for Buxton’s family at this difficult time.
