A BRITISH Airways crew member collapsed and died while on duty in front of shocked passengers.

       The 52-year-old steward tragically collapsed as the busy flight from London Heathrow to Hong Kong prepared to depart.

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       A BA crew member died while on a flight Credit: Getty

       Travellers and holidaymakers were in their seats when the incident happened while first aid was administered in vain.

       Doors were locked on BA Flight 32 and the pilot had requested to push-back to head to the runway when the crew member suddenly collapsed in the rear galley.

       The captain urgently called for medical assistance and a passenger trained in first aid raced to help.

       But despite the arrival of police and ambulance teams, tragically the steward could not be resuscitated and devastated passengers were told the New Year’s Eve flight was being cancelled due to a "medical emergency".

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       Passengers were rebooked onto another flight - BA31 - the next day.

       British Airways told The Sun: “Our thoughts are with our colleagues’ family and friends at this difficult time.”

       A second BA steward, also 52, died in the US on December 23.

       After his sudden death the flight from Newark to London Heathrow was cancelled, with passengers re-booked onto later flights.

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       Devastated colleagues had raised the alarm when he had failed to report for duty. They were all flown home as passengers – too upset to work.

       The cabin crew worker had been found dead in his hotel room, passing away during a stopover between flights.

       A source said: “Crew are frantic. These were two healthy people who suddenly dropped dead. There were no reported underlying health issues.

       “The crew were family men, and leave devastated families in shock and disbelief.

       “It has been a traumatic festive period for BA’s flying team. Everyone is deeply upset.”