Families pay tribute to pilots killed in M62 crash

Matt Greenhalgh (left) and Jamie Fernandes worked as captain and senior first officer for Ryanair

The families of two Ryanair pilots who died in a motorway crash, involving a car and two lorries, have paid tribute to the pair who "achieved so much" in their short lives.

Matt Greenhalgh, 28, and Jamie Fernandes, 24, who worked as captain and senior first officer respectively, were in a taxi when the collision occurred on the M62 near Warrington on 11July.

They died at the scene. The driver of the taxi suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital for treatment.

The families said money raised through donations will be used to fund a scholarship which will help people from all backgrounds in their journey to become pilots.

'Lost without you'

In a statement issued by Cheshire Constabulary, Matt's family said he was "constantly seeking new adventures" and enjoyed travelling with his wife Hannah, whom he married just three months ago.

“Matt had a passion for life and seized every opportunity that came his way," his family said.

"He had already achieved so much in such a short life, with so much more planned.

"His hard work and determination led to a successful career with Ryanair, recently being promoted to captain. He loved the skies and flying, never growing tired of the scenic views from the cockpit.

"He was a loving husband, thoughtful son, loyal brother, caring grandson, respected colleague and valued friend.

"We are lost without you. You are forever in our hearts.”

'Our darling boy'

Jamie's family said he was "living his best life" and they were grateful he had managed to achieve his childhood dream of flying.

"In his too-short life he packed in so much and made the most of every moment.

"He looked forward to every day at work where it is obvious he was with a very special family of colleagues and friends, and, as he said, "the sun always shines above the clouds".

"All of his friends, from both school and the flying community, were hugely important to him. He was so very kind and had a wicked sense of humour.

"Our darling boy was a loving son, grandson, nephew and cousin. He is the light of our lives and always will be."

The statement said a Go Fund Me page has been set up independently of the families which has so far raised more than £36,000.

The family have decided that these funds, along with money raised by Matt and Jamie’s colleagues, will be used to fund a scholarship which helps people from any background achieve their ambition of becoming a pilot.

In addition, the statement said Ryanair will place a plaque bearing both their names at East Midlands Training Centre.

The airline also plans to introduce the 'Matt Greenhalgh and Jamie Fernandes Memorial Award' which will be presented to the top-performing cadet each year.