The Duke of Cambridge started his first day at Bond Air Services as he begins his training to be a pilot for the East Anglian Air Ambulance.
Prince William previously piloted Sea King helicopters for the RAF in Anglesey.
During the next months, he will undergo specific training before he begins piloting ambulance missions during the summer.
The training will involve time in a simulator, aircraft and in-flight skills training.
It was originally announced last year by the East Anglian Air Ambulance (EAAA) that William would begin his new duties in the spring. He must first complete a mandatory training period before he will officially assume duties this summer.
“Having the Duke of Cambridge as one of our pilots is marvelous news as he brings much experience to the charity after his successful career as a search and rescue pilot,” Andres Egerton Smith MBE, Chairman of the EAAA commented.
The EAAA is an organisation that works in partnership with the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust and forms part of a regional critical care network that delivers enhanced emergency medical care across the East of England.
The Duke of Cambridge began his military career in 2006 by joining the Household Cavalry before training as an RAF Search and Rescue Pilot with the Royal Air Force. He graduated as a fully operational pilot in September 2010 and based at Anglesey, Wales.
Before his role with the RAF ended in 2013, Prince William had completed one tour in the Falkland Islands, performed over 150 missions, and completed more than 1,300 flying hours. As he is an heir to the throne, he is barred from combat duty, but this does not stop him from serving in other ways.
William will earn a salary of £40,000 a year but will donate it all to charity.
Featured Photo Credit: UK Ministry of Defence
