Aircraft engineer, 23, dies after 'being crushed while working on plane at Heathrow'

Published: 22:34, 27 July 2026 | Updated: 22:37, 27 July 2026 A 23-year-old aircraft engineer has died after he was 'crushed' while working on a plane at Heathrow Airport. Georgie Buxton was carrying out maintenance tests on a Boeing 787 when machinery is believed to have suddenly collapsed on him. The Dreamliner plane has since been taken out of service, with Virgin Atlantic saying they are now in talks with the manufacturer. Mr Buxton began working as Aircraft Technician at Virgin Atlantic two years ago. He posted on LinkedIn at the time: '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!!' Mr Buxton was in intensive care for four weeks before life support machines were switched off earlier this month. A source described him as a 'young and very loved member of the team' at Virgin Atlantic. Georgie Buxton was carrying out maintenance tests on a Boeing 787 when machinery is believed to have suddenly collapsed on him. A Virgin Atlantic Boeing 787 is seen taking off at Heathrow Airport (file image) They told The Sun: 'Everyone at Virgin is in shock. 'It was not immediately clear what caused the death, and officials have grounded the jet until further notice on safety grounds. 'Heavy metal cannot fall from a jet engine and the plane be allowed to continue flying.' The family of the airport worker, who had been living near Heathrow in west London, is believed to have kept a vigil at his bedside after the incident. An inquest into his death will be opened and adjourned later this week at West London Coroner's Court. Virgin Atlantic owns 17 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. With each plane carrying up to 264 passengers, they are now some of the company's oldest aircraft - despite having an average age of just around 10 years. Virgin Atlantic told the Daily Mail: '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 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.' Heathrow Airport said: 'We were very sorry to hear of this tragic accident.  'Our thoughts are with Georgie’s family and friends, as well as all of our colleagues in the wider Virgin Atlantic family who feel this loss.'