The 33-year-old mother of one from Hazel Crescent, Towcester, was among five people who died when a Cessna 402 was in collision with a home-built light aircraft on Sunday.

A moving statement released by her family yesterday said: "Sybille was a kind, generous and loving mum, daughter, wife and friend.

"She made the most of the opportunities presented to her and tried to do whatever she was asked, and more, to the best of her abilities, seeing things through to the end.

"Flying was her passion as well as her chosen career. She understood aviation, what it entailed and the professionalism and dedication that it required.

"She had a lot more to give and will be greatly missed."

Mrs Gautrey grew up in East Germany and went to university in Berlin.

She came to Britain in 1997, firstly to study, and then to work. She later settled down in Towcester with her husband and daughter.

She was among four people from aviation company Reconnaissance Ventures Limited (RVL) who were in the Cessna aeroplane.

The company has said all four would be missed terribly.

A spokesman for the Coventry-based firm said: "All the staff at RVL have been deeply shocked and profoundly upset by the loss of our four friends and colleagues.

"Our first thoughts are with their families at this awful time.

"As a small company of less than 60 people, we all knew and had a deep affection for our lost colleagues and will miss them terribly as we attempt to come to terms with our future without them.

"All four were exceptionally talented individuals, trained to the highest standards and as skilled and conscientious as any in their respective professions.

"Their loss will be felt for a very long time."

Mrs Gautrey was RVL's chief training captain and ground operations director.

The pilot of the light aircraft, Brian Normington, aged 66, also died in the accident.

Flowers were left at the scene of the crash in Brinklow, Warwickshire, by mourners yesterday.