Matthews Soars Thanks to Ulster Flying Club
By Lesley Walsh
A man once told he would never walk is set to become the first disabled pilot to fly into Belfast International Airport. Matthew Monaghan has achieved his unrestricted pilot’s license with the help of the Ulster Flying Club in Newtownards.
Landing at Aldergrove on one of his few solo flights, a milestone after an eight-year journey to fly independently. The 35-year-old, born with muscular dystrophy, expressed gratitude for the support from instructors at the club, who have encouraged him throughout his training.
Previously, Matthew had to travel to England to fly due to a lack of adapted aircraft in Northern Ireland. He received a restricted license in 2019 through a scholarship from the Flying Scholarships for Disabled People charity. That license limited his flying distance and required him to have a tutor.
Hearing about the Ulster Flying Club’s commitment to inclusivity, Matthew approached them for help. The club made necessary accommodations, providing cushions to elevate him in the cockpit and pedal extenders since he couldn’t reach the controls comfortably.
After demonstrating his readiness, he completed his first solo flights to Kilkeel and Enniskillen, and today is thrilled to fly solo into Aldergrove.
Reflecting on his lifelong passion for aviation—sparked by a toy jet he received at age five—Matthew recently took his mother on a flight, an emotional experience for both given his journey.
Living in Newtownabbey and working on his autobiography, Matthew hopes to inspire others with disabilities to pursue their dreams of flying. He praises the supportive community at the Ulster Flying Club and encourages anyone interested to take the leap, emphasizing how liberating flying feels.
The Ulster Flying Club is eager to offer more opportunities to individuals with disabilities, highlighting Matthew’s story as an inspiration for others to explore their potential in aviation.
