Barrington Irving - Contributed

The United States Congress has honoured the young Jamaican-born pilot who became the first black to fly solo around the world.

Barrington Irving, 23, a Miami-based pilot, was recognised by the U.S. House of Representatives when it unanimously passed a resolution honouring him.

The bill, sponsored by Florida Democratic representatives Alcee Hastings and Kendrick Meek, encourages museums across the United States to also commemorate Irving's accomplishment.

"When the younger generation is looking for a role model and hero, they need to look no further than Barrington Irving,'' Meek said in a statement.

"This young pilot proved that when you dream big dreams and work hard, the extraordinary is possible," he added.

"I am honoured to call Barrington Irving a constituent,'' he continued.

Irving started his 26,000-mile journey on his single-engine plan, Inspiration, in March.

He had convinced friends, politicians and corporate sponsors to believe in his aviation dream.

Other commendations

He had received recognition from cities in Southern Florida and his native Jamaica after returning to earth in June, touching down at Orlando's Opa-locka Executive Airport.

"It's just so humbling to know that something that started so small is now being recognised across the nation,'' Irving said.

"But, no matter what, the greatest award will always be the impact that I've made on youth and teaching them they can do or be anything."