A Virgin Atlantic engineer has died nearly a month after sustaining injuries while carrying out maintenance work on a commercial aircraft at Heathrow Airport. Georgie Buxton is believed to have been working on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner when he was seriously injured.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed on Tuesday that the incident happened on the morning of 11 June and that he later died in hospital on 7 July. The force is carrying out a joint investigation with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Virgin Atlantic said it was "heartbroken" to confirm the death of a "much-loved" member of its engineering team and said it was working with the relevant authorities to establish what happened.
A police spokesperson said: "Officers attended the scene, alongside the London Ambulance Service.
"A 23-year-old man was taken to hospital with serious injuries, that happened while undertaking maintenance work on an aircraft."
They said Buxton's family continue to be supported by specialist officers.
An inquest is due to be opened into his death.
Who was Georgie Buxton?
According to his LinkedIn, external page, Buxton, thought to have been in his twenties, started working for Virgin Atlantic two years ago. He described himself as a "highly dedicated worker" who had an "immense passion for aircraft engineering" in his employment profile.
How has Virgin Atlantic responded?
A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson 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.
"The safety and wellbeing of our people is always our top priority, and we are devastated by this incident."
What have Heathrow and investigators said?
A representative for Heathrow Airport said: "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."
The HSE said: "We are investigating this incident jointly with The Metropolitan Police."
Boeing, which manufactures the Dreamliner, has declined to comment.
The Dreamliner can carry up to 325 passengers to long-haul destinations and is 206ft (62.8 m) long.
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Key Facts
- The incident happened on the morning of 11 June at Heathrow Airport.
- Georgie Buxton died in hospital on 7 July after being injured while carrying out maintenance work.
- Metropolitan Police and the Health and Safety Executive are investigating jointly.
- Buxton is believed to have been working on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
- Virgin Atlantic said it was working with the relevant authorities to establish what happened.
