SANDUSKY COUNTY, Ohio — While most 16-year-olds are learning how to drive, one is learning how to fly.

Allyssa Metz has been logging flight hours since she was nine. Just last month, the sophomore from Clyde High School completed her first solo flight.

Metz may not have a driver’s license yet, but she’s got the next best thing after receiving her pilot’s license this summer. On Sept. 3, she gave herself a special birthday present: her first solo flight.

"It was on my 16th birthday. We went to Sandusky County Regional Airport, kind of surprised because I didn't think I was gonna do it,” said Metz. “But then I ended up soloing because he said I was ready. I was completely nervous doing that, but it was awesome. Definitely really cool to do.”

Metz said her passion for flying was inspired

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