17/09/2010

Prince Flying High

Prince William has completed his RAF flight training and is now set to qualify as a fully operational rescue pilot.

Upon graduation, Flight Lieutenant Wales, as he is known, will be presented with his squadron badge and certificate by Captain Jonathan Dixon at RAF Valley in Anglesey.

He will join 22 Squadron - C flight as a co-pilot of a Sea King helicopter.

The Prince has learned to manoeuvre the aircraft with pinpoint accuracy after 70 hours of live flying and 50 hours of simulator training.

William will now have the job of rescuing stranded mountaineers, swimmers and others in distress.

The Lieutenant said: "I am really delighted to have completed the training course with my fellow students. The course has been challenging, but I have enjoyed it immensely.

"I absolutely love flying, so it will be an honour to serve operationally with the Search and Rescue Force, helping to provide such a vital emergency service."

The Prince will be based at RAF Valley for a three-year tour of duty.

(BMcN/BMcC)

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