Student Dies After Falling From Plane

Cambridge University student, Alana Cutland, died while on an internship in Madagascar earlier this month.

A Cambridge University student has died in Madagascar after falling from a plane.

Alana Cutland’s family said they had been left “heartbroken” and paid tribute to the “bright, independent woman.”

The 19-year-old from Milton Keynes died while on an internship in the African island nation earlier this month, the Foreign Office said.

Reports said she fell from the Cessna-style light aircraft as it flew above the island’s savannah.

In a statement, her family described her as a talented dancer who had a “thirst for discovering more of the world.”

“Our daughter Alana was a bright, independent young woman, who was loved and admired by all those that knew her,” they said.

“She was always so kind and supportive to her family and friends, which resulted in her having a very special connection with a wide network of people from all walks of her life, who we know will miss her dearly.

“Alana grasped every opportunity that was offered to her with enthusiasm and a sense of adventure, always seeking to extend her knowledge and experience in the best ways possible. She was particularly excited to be embarking on the next stage of her education, on an internship in Madagascar complementing her studies in natural sciences.”