A British Airways flight attendant abruptly collapsed and died in front of seated passengers just prior to takeoff at London Heathrow.

The 52-year-old man was prepping for takeoff on a Hong Kong flight.

It happened just moments before the jet pulled away from the gate.

The captain called for any professional medical assistance, and a passenger helped with CPR.

Emergency services personnel attended the scene but could not be saved.

“Sadly, despite the best efforts of our crews, a patient was pronounced dead at the scene,’ London Ambulance Service said.

The early evening incident caused the flight to be delayed overnight.

Passengers were accommodated in local hotels and departed the following day.

A BA spokesperson said: ‘Our thoughts are with our colleagues’ friends and family at this incredibly sad time.’

Just a week earlier a BA flight attendant was found dead in their layover hotel room in the US.

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