The Princess of Wales and her eldest son, Prince George, have appeared side by side in a touching video honouring the country's servicemen and women for Armed Forces Day. The young prince, aged just 12, appears to be nearly as tall as his 5ft 9in mother, Princess Kate, in the video shared on Instagram to their millions of followers.
Royal Visit to RAF Coningsby
Prince George was invited to sit in an aircraft from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight during a royal visit to RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire two weeks ago. Kate and her eldest son met pilots and engineers while also examining other planes belonging to the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight at the military air base.
According to a post on the Waleses' social media account: "Honouring Service and Sacrifice. Learning about the extraordinary history of these aircraft and meeting the pilots and engineers who keep their legacy alive. A powerful reminder of the courage, skill and dedication of those who serve, past and present. Thank you to all those who have served and continue to serve."
Fleet and Roles
The fleet is usually used for aerial displays and is comprised of an Avro Lancaster heavy bomber and two fighters – a Supermarine Spitfire and a Hawker Hurricane. The Princess of Wales, who has been a Royal Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Coningsby since August 2023, was also seen engaged in conversation with RAF pilots and engineers during the visit.
Public Reaction
Fans shared their excitement over the video and seeing the mother and son. One person wrote: "Excuse me but when did George become all grown up? What a fun engagement." Another person said: "Omg, George grew up very fast." A third royal fan wrote: "Gosh hes as tall as his mum - Love love love this family."
George's Aviation Interest
This is not the first time the young prince has shown his fascination with aviation. It was reported that George was learning to fly at just 11 years old, back in 2024. The heir to the throne reportedly took his first flight at an airfield near their old Windsor Great Park home, soaring above White Waltham Airfield near Maidenhead, Berkshire, during his summer holidays.
Future Education
Kensington Palace last week confirmed Prince George would be attending Eton College this September. The 12-year-old will be following in the footsteps of his father, Prince William, who also attended the elite public school where multiple politicians, actors and royals have studied.
Armed Forces Day is a special day to thank and celebrate the armed forces – extending to serving personnel, veterans and cadets – and to honour those who make up the military community.
