Prince Harry passes pilot qualification with flying colours

Prince Harry, who will become an uncle this month when pregnant Kate Middleton gives birth, has another reason to celebrate. The royal has qualified as Apache Aircraft Commander within 3 Regiment Army Air Corps.

Harry’s qualification marks the culmination of his experience as a member of the Apache aircrew and follows a successful tour of Afghanistan. "This is a tremendous achievement for Captain Wales who passed with flying colours," said Harry's commanding officer, Lt. Col. Tom de la Rue.

The popular royal has distinguished record in training, including being awarded a prize for the best Co-Pilot Gunner.

"I am delighted that his new status as a qualified Apache Aircraft Commander and Co-Pilot Gunner places him at the very top of his profession," added his commanding officer.

Prince Harry will continue with normal duties as an Apache Pilot based at Wattisham Airfield in Suffolk, England.

Harry has previously spoken revealed that his role as an army officer gives him the chance to be "one of the guys."

"My father's always trying to remind me about who I am and stuff like that," he said. "But it's very easy to forget about who I am when I am in the army. Everyone’s wearing the same uniform and doing the same kind of thing."