Ellie Carter from Devon, UK, followed her passion for aviation and celebrated her 16th birthday by flying an aeroplane alone.

Footage shows the 16-year-old girl showing off her pilot skills by successfully flying a Cessna 152 over Devon.

Ellie Carter started to fly at the age of 9 and took her first flight alone at just 14. ''It's all about ambition and milestones and flying solo is a huge milestone. It's that moment where you tread in the footsteps of the great aviators - male and female, who had taken that first solo just like you,'' she said.

Carter hopes to inspire other women to explore the same path, adding: ''It would be great to send a message out to other girls somehow. I am not privileged, nor do I have parents that fly. I work hard to follow my dreams and there is help out there for us to do that.''

The clip was captured on December 2.

I have always wanted to fly for as long as I can remember. Flying solo is a highlight for any pilot. That first time being in the air alone without an instructor is cherished and never forgotten.
The instructors decide when you are ready. I was really keen to go solo on my 16th and complete the double after soloing on gliders on my 14th. Unfortunately despite being ready to go storm Diane grounded me for a few extra days.
The aircraft climbs a lot quicker when you lose the weight of an instructor. It emphasises the joy of what you are doing as soon as you leave the ground.