HRHs The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arrived at Kemble today for the official opening of the airfield. As they walked out of their helicopter they were treated to an energetic Extra 300 display by Nouj, where the Duchess was heard to note that she was 'glad that she wasn't on board'!
The Prince and Duchess met with Dawn, Jo and Nitro in AV8 restaurant and chatted about Ultimate High. The Royal residence, Highgrove, is only 6 miles from Kemble, and the Prince commented "So you're the chaps who do aerobatics over our heads". Dawn pointed out that we try to avoid Highgrove, but the Prince said "No, don't stop, I really enjoy it!". There we have it - aeros by royal appointment! Former Red Arrow Synchro Pair Leader Des was also introduced, with the shining Gnat on static display being the actual mount used by him when he displayed with the RAF Aerobatic team.
The guests then chatted with Greeners beside G-IIDI, and the Prince was fascinated with the technology of the light but strong aircraft. A pilot himself, having gone through RAF training on the same Jet Provosts as Ultimate High's instructors, he wanted to understand the physiological impact of operating a +10g/-10g aircraft that rolls at 400 degrees per second without any anti-g system. He politely declined the offer of a quick charge around the block....
Royal "pro" Cubes MBE then greeted the Prince and Duchess by a Hunter before Cornsey completed a great Ultimate High day out by hauling a Hunter through a series of high speed passes and aerobatics. Future pilot Hannah capped it all by passing a posy to the Duchess before they departed for Highgrove. |
