Airports can be dangerous places. Planes have near-misses. Weather can cause significant delays and problems for passengers and crews. People and planes are always hectically arriving and departing. In fact, there is massive machinery of all kinds that constantly needs repairing, checking, and maintenance. In a tragic occurrence, a Virgin Atlantic engineer at Heathrow Airport in London reportedly lost his life due to an accident there, per the BBC. It was especially horrendous. The reason for what happened is not yet clear. The plane, a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, is reportedly not being used at this time out of an abundance of caution, per the U.K. Sun.
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Per the BBC, "The Metropolitan Police confirmed on Tuesday that the incident happened on the morning of 11 June and he died in hospital on 7 July." An investigation of the circumstances is reportedly ongoing. The Metropolitan Police are evidently working alongside the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Buxton Spent Weeks in Intensive Care
Per the U.K. Sun, Georgie Buxton "was crushed to death inside a plane fuel tank after machinery suddenly fell on him." The young man was only 23 years old. Buxton spent a harrowing month in intensive care as he fought for his life. Personnel from Virgin Atlantic are reportedly in touch with Boeing after the deadly incident.
Someone told the outlet, "Georgie was a young and very loved member of the team. Everyone at Virgin is in shock."
His family is described as understandably "devastated." They remained steadfastly at Buxton's side during his lengthy stay at the hospital. Finally, the life support machines he was on were shut down. Buxton was single and had been employed by Virgin Atlantic for two years.
A Virgin Atlantic Spokesperson Addressed Georgie Buxton's Death
Per the BBC, the spokesperson stated, "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."
Someone speaking on behalf of the 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."
