The sky's the limit for Prince William, who has passed the exams which he needed to qualify as an air ambulance pilot and will be begin working in his new role this summer. Kensington Palace made the announcement on Thursday, shortly after the Duke of Cambridge touched down in Tokyo to begin his seven-day tour of Japan and China.
© Photo: RexThe news that William had passed his exams came after he touched down in Tokyo
The 32-year-old royal, who is second-in-line to the throne, had been studying for his air transport pilot licence exams since last September and has now passed all 14 exams required to work as a civilian helicopter pilot, the palace revealed. Upon William's return from his current tour, he will undergo extra training with Bond Air Services before starting work for the East Anglian Air Ambulance service in the summer.
© Photo: Getty ImagesA group of school students wait in the rain to see the Prince William
The popular Prince, who is expecting his second child with the Duchess of Cambridge (née Kate Middleton) in April, will aim to work as close to full time as possible. He will cover day and night shifts for the team based in Cambridge and Norwich.
© Photo: RexPrince William is served Japanese tea at a restored Tea House at Hama Rikyu gardens in Tokyo
Opportunely, Anmer Hall, the Norfolk base William shares with Kate and their young son Prince George, is close by. It is thought the family will spend more time on the Sandringham estate once the Duke begins his new job. William will spend the next six days highlighting British links with Japan and China and addressing issues such innovation, trade and creativity on his first trip to both countries. His visit will be China's most high-profile royal visit since the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh toured the country in 1986.
© Photo: Getty ImagesWilliam walks over a traditional Japanese bridge in Hama Rikyu Gardens with Tokyo Governor Yoichi Masuzoe
Confirmed cities on the royal itinerary include Beijing, Shanghai and Tokyo. William's private secretary, Miguel Head, said ahead of the visit: "The Duke's hugely looking forward to the visit and getting to know two countries that will be important in his life for years to come."
