Heathrow Airport: Engineer Georgie Buxton has died after being crushed by machinery inside plane

Georgie Buxton had been working at the airline for two years before the tragedy.

Emily Williams
The Nightly
Georgie Buxton had worked at Virgin Atlantic for two years before the tragedy.

An aircraft engineer has died weeks after he was crushed by machinery inside a plane’s fuel tank.

Georgie Buxton, 23, was in the intensive care unit for four weeks after a horrifying incident in a hangar at Heathrow Airport in the UK.

At the time, he was performing maintenance tests on a Boeing 787 operated by Virgin Atlantic.

Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.

Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.

Email Us
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.

Since the tragedy, the plane has remained out of service.

A source told The Sun that Mr Buxton had died.

“Georgie was a young and very loved member of the team,” they said.

“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 machinery and the plane be allowed to continue flying.”

Mr Buxton had worked for Virgin Atlantic for two years before the incident.

The 23-year-old’s family remained by his bedside until the life support machine was turned off earlier this month.

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson told The Sun that an investigation had been launched into the matter.

“We are heartbroken to confirm that a much-loved member of our engineering team has passed away,” they said.

“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.”

Comments

Latest Edition

The Nightly cover for 27-07-2026

Latest Edition

Edition Edition 27 July 202627 July 2026

Labor calls time on scandal-hit Jacinta Allen with deputy Ben Carroll poised to become Victorian premier.