Three people who were killed in a New Year’s Eve crash near Heathrow Airport were British Airways cabin crew, the airline has said.

The two men, aged 25 and 23, and a 20-year-old woman who died at the scene – along with a 25 year-old woman in a serious condition in hospital – are all believed to have been friends who worked for the firm.

It is understood two of them had finished work at about 6pm, while the other two were on a day off and were not scheduled to be on duty, PA Media reports.

They died while travelling in a white Toyota Yaris which collided with a lorry in Stanwell, Surrey, at 11.39pm.

The lorry, a white Mercedes HGV, left the road and ended up in Longford River, Surrey Police said.

The lorry driver was taken to hospital as a precaution. No arrests have been made.

A BA spokesperson said: “We’re deeply saddened to learn of the death of our colleagues involved in a road traffic collision last night.

“Our thoughts are with their family and friends, who we are supporting at this distressing time.”

Sergeant Chris Schultze, of Surrey and Sussex roads policing unit, said: “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of those involved in this collision at what is an extremely difficult time.

“We are continuing to appeal for witnesses to what happened and would urge anyone who may have any video footage, CCTV or dash cam or any other kind, to get in touch with us.”

The lorry was operated by air services provider dnata, which offers ground handling, cargo, travel, and flight catering services to airlines.

A dnata spokesman said: “We can confirm that one of our trucks was involved in a road traffic accident on the evening of December 31. We are fully assisting relevant authorities with their investigations. Our thoughts and condolences are with the families of those affected by this very sad incident.”

The road was closed this morning while the lorry was recovered.