Taking some time away from his job as an air ambulance pilot, The Duke of Cambridge will visit RAF Coningsbyon 22 September to commemorate the 100th Anniversary Parade of 29 (Reserve) Squadron.
Prince William pictured here in 2010 at the Controls of a Search and Rescue Seaking Helicopter.
The Duke is the Honourary Air Commandant of Royal Air Force Coningsby.
The airbase is also home to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight of which Prince William is Patron. During his engagement, he will visit the
Flight in the 75th anniversary year of the Battle of Britain.
The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight marks the 75th anniversary of the Battle of Britain by taking part in flypasts and air shows across the United Kingdom. The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight not just recognises the pilots who were part of the Battle of Britains, but all RAF personnel who gave their lives to defend UK shores.
Located in Lincolnshire, RAF Coningsby is an air force base that handles the delivery of Quick Reaction Alert (South). It expedites the launch of armed aircraft at short notice to investigate possible threats to UK airspace, a chief priority of the Royal Air Force.
The 29(R) Squadron began in 1915. Part of the 100th year celebration will be a parade that William will have the chance to view.
The 29(R) instructs both new pilots and pilots experienced on other platforms how to operate the world-class multi-role Typhoon aircraft which is based at Coningsby.
William’s visit to RAF Coningsby is an opportunity to remember and honour the significant history of UK air defence, and to learn more about the fascinating work the air force base is currently involved with.
Following the 100th Anniversary Parade of 29(R) Squadron, William will attend a lunch in the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Hangar. He will meet a variety of personnel who work at the base and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight engineers.
An exciting end to the event will see The Duke of Cambridge take flight as a passenger in one of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s aircraft.
The Duke will end his visit with a stop at RAF Coningsby’s Quick Reaction Alert station.
Photo Credit: UK Ministry of Defence via Flickr
