Police confirmed a Cambridge University student fell to her death in Madagascar after opening the door of a small plane whilst they were mid-air. Alana Cutland, 19, from Milton Keynes has died whilst on an internship in Madagascar. She was studying natural science at Robinson College.
The police do not know why she opened the door of the light aircraft but do have a theory that she might have suffered a reaction to the anti-malaria drugs. Police are using a helicopter and ground team to search for her body.
Cultand family photo
In a statement released through the Foreign Office, Ms Cutland’s family paid tribute to her, saying: “Our daughter Alana was a bright, independent young woman, who was loved and admired by all those that knew her.
“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.
“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.
“Alana was also a talented dancer and embraced the more creative side of her talents with joy and commitment.
“Her thirst for discovering more of the world always ensured she made the most of every second of her action-packed young life.
“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.”
Recreation of the incident that happened mid air
