An investigation has been launched as an airport worker tragically died after a plane seemingly ‘ran them over’ on the tarmac on Monday night.

Horrified witnesses could do little but watch as the jet reportedly reversed into the victim at Montreal-Trudeau International Airport in Canada. The signaller was rushed to hospital after the accident but sadly died.

The accident took place shortly before a flight was scheduled to fly to Paris.

According to local police, preliminary information suggested the jet may have been reversing when it hit the worker. The Paris-based airline French Bee was due to depart at 6am but was delayed until after midnight, Radio Canada reported.

Speaking to Radio Canada, one witnesses said she saw a man go under the plane as it was moving and reported people panicking on board.

Yves Beauchamp, President and Chief Executive Officer of Montréal Airport said: “The loss of a member of our airport community affects us all deeply. During this difficult time, our thoughts are with the employee’s family, loved ones and colleagues, to whom we extend our heartfelt sympathy and sincere condolences.”

The incident has been reportedly passed to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

A spokesperson for the French Bee airline said on Monday: “The precise circumstances of the incident have not yet been established. “We are cooperating fully with Canadian authorities and the various parties involved to help establish the facts.

“French Bee’s immediate priority is caring for those affected by the incident and supporting its passengers and crew.”