Prince William takes a fighter jet for a spin

Dec 8, 2005, 17:48 GMT

Britain's Prince William had the thrill of his life when he piloted a fighter jet yesterday (07.12.05) - and says it was "awesome".

The handsome royal - who was doing work experience with the RAF in Wales - was allowed to take the controls of the high-tech Hawk jet while it whizzed over Snowdonia.

Dressed in a jumpsuit and helmet - in a similar outfit to the one made famous by actor Tom Cruise when he starred in 'Top Gun' -  the 23-year-old royal was taken on an exhilarating ride with a pilot before he was shown how to fly the plane.

After learning about the controls the heir to the British throne, who is currently dating stunning Kate Middleton, took over as the Hawk whizzed over North Wales at hundreds of miles an hour.

A source told Britain's The Sun newspaper the young royal was a natural pilot.

The insider said: "Prince William loved the ride.

"When he landed he kept saying, 'Awesome. Awesome'. The trip is not part of the work experience programme but he jumped at the chance. He was a natural."

Sources say William wants to join the Army Air Corps after he finishes his training at the world-renowned Sandhurst Military Academy, where he is due to start next year.

His younger brother Prince Harry is already enrolled in the officer training programme.

William's trip to the RAF base was not the first time he has undertaken work experience.

The royal has also worked in financial institutions in the city, on a country estate to learn about land management and has visited homeless charity Centrepoint. He will shortly join a mountain rescue team for his final placement.

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