Prince William is to become a helicopter pilot with East Anglian Air Ambulance, and he will donate his entire salary to charity.Kensington Palace confirmed the second-in-line's new role on Thursday afternoon, though didn't mention which good cause would benefit. William's training for a helicopter license will commence in September. It is estimated to take a minimum of five months to complete, during which, the Palace confirms, he "will continue to undertake engagements on behalf of the Queen and his charitable affiliations".
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe Duke's new post will see him based at Cambridge and Norwich Airports, which are close to Anmer Hall – the Norfolk base of the Prince and his wife the Duchess of Cambridge, née Kate Middleton. He will be flying both day and night shifts, beginning in spring 2015 after the completion of training. "The Duke will start as a co-pilot but, after a period of training, will be qualified to fly as a helicopter commander," reads the statement released Thursday afternoon. While the move means that William, 32, will not be taking on full-time royal duties, he will combine his post – described as his "primary occupation" – with royal duties.
© Photo: Getty Images"His roster will take into account the duties and responsibilities he will continue to undertake on behalf of the Queen, both in the United Kingdom and overseas," explains the Palace, before going on to confirm that William will also continue his work with the Royal Foundation of The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry. No doubt William is delighted at the prospect of returning to the cockpit. He once said that there is "no greater feeling" than saving lives.Between fatherhood and studying for his helicopter license – the Air Transport Pilot's Licence requires passing 14 exams and a flight test – William will be kept busy. He stepped down from his post as a search and rescue pilot with the Royal Air Force last year, ahead of the arrival of his and Kate's first child. The couple relocated to the British capital in time to welcome Prince George in July, and William embarked on a "transitional" year to work out his future path, during which he studied at Cambridge University.
