According to the Ministry of Defence, Prince William graduated with flying colors after helicopter pilot training at RAF Shawbury in Shropshire. Prince William will be presented with his wings next month at Shawbury in a ceremony.
However, It will be at least another six-months before he qualifies in his ambition to become an RAF search and rescue pilot. Prince William is now qualified to fly solo missions in military helicopters after having 40-hours as a solo pilot. He passed his exams after an intensive course flying twin-engined Griffins while Prince Harry has been in single-engine Squirrels.
St James’s Palace told reporter: “Prince William is pleased to have completed his intensive course with the advanced rotary training at RAF Shawbury and is looking forward to going to RAF Valley for the next stage of his training. He has learnt how to fly helicopters. Now he has to learn how to fly helicopters and how to use a winch to rescue people.”
27-year-old Flight Lieutenant William Wales as he is known in the RAF, is expected to become an operational pilot early in 2011. He will then undertake a minimum three-year search and rescue tour of duty. Next year, as part of his training, Prince William is also expected to serve three-months in the Falklands.
Younger brother, Prince Harry, who is training with the Army Air Corps, is lagging six months behind his older brother. He will receive his wings in a ceremony next May at RAF Middle Wallop where he is now stationed.
I have read in the newspapers that your favourite horse had a heart attack. I am very sorry to hear that. She was only ten years old. Poor girl!!
Many greetings from Praque
Magda Rolinkova