The aviation community and locals in Tipperary are in deep mourning following the sudden death of Robert ‘Rob’ Gallagher, a young Aer Lingus pilot who achieved his lifelong career dream.

Originally from Roscrea, Rob passed away at his home in Donnybrook on Wednesday.

After graduating from UCD in 2011 and completing his flight training in 2016, he secured his ‘dream job’ flying for Aer Lingus.

Colleagues remembered him as a talented aviator who brought warmth to the flight deck, alongside a deep love for cars and the GAA.

Paying tribute to his vibrant personality, a senior cabin crew member remembered him as a ‘lovable rogue with a razor-sharp wit, a brilliant mind & that unmistakably handsome smile.’

Another colleague shared: ‘Rob was an exceptional pilot but more importantly an exceptional person.’

Rob is survived by his parents, Marian and Gary, his brothers, Peter and Sam, and his extended family.