Prince William visits Airbus base in Oxfordshire for air ambulance work

On a Friday, Prince William made a surprise visit to the newly opened Airbus Helicopters headquarters at Oxford Airport in Oxfordshire. His attendance was unannounced and took place in a private capacity, reflecting his ongoing commitment to the London Air Ambulance, where he serves as a patron. The visit was facilitated by Airbus, recognizing his connection to the air ambulance service. During his visit, the Prince engaged informally with the helicopter staff and was shown the Airbus H135, which is set to be used by the London Air Ambulance. This particular model is an upgraded version of the aircraft he piloted during his tenure with the East Anglian Air Ambulance from March 2015 to July 2017. His experience as a RAF search and rescue pilot further underscores his deep ties to aviation and emergency services. The Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in the UK, Lenny Brown, expressed gratitude for the Prince's presence, highlighting his significance within the British helicopter community. The visit not only showcased the new state-of-the-art production facilities but also reinforced the importance of air ambulance services in the UK. Prince William's interest in aviation is also reflected in his family, as his eldest son, Prince George, has shown a fascination with aircraft from a young age. This visit serves to strengthen the relationship between the royal family and the aviation sector, particularly in the context of emergency medical services.