The families of two Ryanair pilots tragically killed in a road accident have expressed their profound grief and detailed plans to honor their memory through a new initiative aimed at fostering future aviators. Captain Matt Greenhalgh, 28, and Senior First Officer Jamie Fernandes, 24, died on July 11 when their taxi collided with two lorries on the M62 motorway near St Helens, Cheshire, en route to Liverpool Airport.
The sudden loss of Greenhalgh and Fernandes has deeply impacted their families and the wider community. In heartfelt tributes, Greenhalgh was remembered as a “loving husband, thoughtful son, loyal brother, caring grandson, respected colleague, and valued friend,” while Fernandes was celebrated for his kindness and the joy he found in fulfilling his childhood dream of flying.
In the wake of the tragedy, a GoFundMe page was established, quickly raising over £37,000. The families announced that these funds, along with additional contributions from colleagues, will be used to set up a scholarship trust to support aspiring pilots. This initiative aims to provide opportunities for those who dream of a career in aviation but may not have the means to pursue it.
Cheshire Police have reported that the 61-year-old lorry driver involved in the accident was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has since been bailed. The taxi driver also sustained serious injuries and is receiving treatment in the hospital.
Ryanair is set to further commemorate the pilots’ lives by erecting a plaque at their East Midlands Training Centre and introducing the Matt Greenhalgh and Jamie Fernandes Memorial Award. This annual award will honour the top-performing cadet, celebrating excellence and dedication in pilot training.
As the legal proceedings continue, the families of Greenhalgh and Fernandes find some solace in the broad support from the community and the establishment of a lasting legacy that will inspire and aid future pilots.
For those wishing to contribute to the memorial fund or learn more about the scholarship, details can be found on the GoFundMe page here.
The families have requested privacy during this difficult time as they continue to cope with the devastating loss of their loved ones
