Virgin engineer died after explosion in fuel tank
A 23-year-old Virgin Atlantic engineer died following a non-combustion explosion inside a Boeing 787 fuel tank at Heathrow Airport. Authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the incident, which occurred while the technician was performing maintenance.
Why it matters
The incident raises significant questions regarding workplace safety protocols in aviation maintenance and the structural integrity of Boeing 787 fuel systems.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, Buxton was fatally injured when the fuel tank of a Dreamliner jet exploded
A Virgin Atlantic engineer died of a traumatic brain injury after an explosion as he worked inside a plane fuel tank, an inquest heard.
Aircraft technician Georgie Buxton, 23, was injured during the incident at Heathrow Airport on 11 June and underwent various surgeries to his head and neck. He died at St Mary's Hospital on 7 July .
Senior coroner Lydia Brown opened and suspended an inquest into his death at West London Coroners' Court on Thursday, as she is waiting to see if any criminal charges are brought.
A criminal investigation has been launched by the Metropolitan Police who are working with the Health and Safety Executive. The coroner said she had no details of any potential charges.
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