As the Prince and Princess of Wales mark another milestone with an annual birthday portrait, a long-standing tradition for all their children, Prince George has gone from a rambunctious toddler to a responsible older brother, setting an example for siblings Charlotte and Louis. The eldest of the Wales family has undergone quite an evolution. Expected to one day become king, George is already getting a taste of life in the spotlight, thanks to his parents.
Though the future may seem daunting, 11-year-old Prince George is already stepping into his future role with confidence. With Prince William preparing for his eventual role as monarch, plans for their children—especially George—are already taking shape. In a delightful revelation, just days after Catherine shared joyous news, the young prince took a significant step toward his future by experiencing his first flying lesson on the last day of summer vacation.
Last week, Prince George’s parents brought him to White Waltham Airfield in Maidenhead, England. The Berkshire airfield is only a 20-minute drive from their home in Windsor, and it’s where George’s great-grandfather, Prince Philip, trained to fly in the 1950s. Known for encouraging their children’s curiosity and adventurous spirits, William and Catherine were relaxed and cheerful as they watched their eldest son embrace this thrilling opportunity.
According to an onlooker, the young prince flew with an instructor and loved the experience. “George is only 11 years old, but it’s the right time to start,” one observer said. “The royal family has a proud tradition of flying, and it looks like George is next in line.” His parents watched from the safety of the ground, but George took to the skies with an instructor and enjoyed every moment.
Another onlooker mentioned that there were around 30 or 40 people in the clubhouse, and the royal family appeared completely at ease. Prince William, a trained helicopter pilot himself, was especially eager to share this moment with George, likely reminiscing about his own aviation experiences. There’s even speculation that William may have shared some of his own flying tips with George before the lesson began.
Catherine, known for her hands-on approach to parenting, smiled warmly as George prepared for his flight. She was reportedly thrilled that her son could participate in such an exciting activity, which offered him the chance to develop new skills and confidence. George, already interested in aviation since he was a toddler, seems eager to carry on the family legacy.
It’s a decision that no doubt pleases his parents. William once mentioned at a Buckingham Palace garden party in May that George is a "potential pilot in the making." While George is still a few years away from flying solo, his initial steps toward obtaining a pilot’s license are well in line with royal family tradition.
Pilots can begin learning at any age, but flying hours that count toward a license can only begin at 14. Students may fly with an instructor until they turn 16 and can carry passengers once they obtain a private pilot’s license at age 17. For George, the journey has just begun, but the path is already mapped out. To obtain his license, George will need a minimum of 45 flying hours and nine theoretical exams.
Aviation runs deep in the royal family. In addition to his father, George’s great-grandfather, Prince Philip, also trained at White Waltham Airfield. In November 1952, Philip began his flying training at the airfield, later earning his wings in May 1953. Now, it seems that George is following in his footsteps, with William and Catherine proudly offering their full support.
As for Prince George, he’s already showing signs of wanting to emulate the many family members who have earned their wings. This exciting first flight is just the beginning of what could be a lifelong passion for the young prince.
