A British student has died after falling out of a plane while on a study trip in Madagascar, according to reports.

The family of Alana Cutland, from Milton Keynes, in Buckinghamshire, paid tribute to the 19-year-old, describing her as “a bright, independent young woman, who was loved and admired by all those that knew her”.

In a statement released through the Foreign Office, they added: “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.

“We are heartbroken at the loss of our wonderful, beautiful daughter, who lit up every room she walked in to, and made people smile just by being there.”

Cutland was in Madagascar on an internship to compliment her studies in Natural Sciences at Cambridge University.

According to The Sun, she fell from a Cessna-style light aircraft over the paradise Indian Ocean Island about ten minutes after take-off in the remote area of Anjajavy last Thursday.

Cutland’s body has yet to be found and an investigation into the circumstances of her death is underway.

A statement issued by Dr David Woodman, of Robinson College, Cambridge University, said: “Robinson College is deeply shocked by the news of Alana’s death.

“In her two years here, she made a huge contribution to many different aspects of life in the college. She will be sorely missed by us all.

“The college extends its sincerest condolences to Alana’s family at this extremely difficult time.”