King Charles is on the hunt for a top-notch helicopter pilot, offering a “competitive” salary and appealing perks, in what could be an ideal role for Prince Andrew.
Royal expert Richard Eden humorously suggested in the Daily Mail that this position might be the “perfect way” for the Duke of York to make a comeback into the Royal fold after stepping back from his Royal duties five years ago.
The monarch is seeking a chopper pilot to transport members of the Royal Family across the UK for their official duties, reports the Scottish Daily Express.
Prince Andrew, who has experience as a helicopter pilot and warship captain from his time in the Royal Navy during the Falklands War, serving on the HMS Invincible, could fit the bill.
The job listing on the Royal Household’s website seeks an “experienced multi-engine helicopter commander” to serve either as a pilot or co-pilot.
The description states: “The King’s Helicopter Flight (TKHF) consists of a small team of pilots and ground support staff who provide an exceptional helicopter travel service to Members of the Royal Family undertaking official engagements across the UK.”
Beyond technical skills like “extensive flying experience in multi-engine helicopters”, candidates must also show “high levels of initiative, pro-activity and problem-solving capability”.
The job advert highlights the need for a candidate with “excellent communication and interpersonal skills” and an ability to “actively promote a safe, open and honest working culture”.
Interested applicants have until 23.55 on November 3 to apply for the role that comes with a “generous benefits package”, complimentary lunches, and an “excellent” pension scheme.
The Express in 2024 reported that Prince Andrew, as well as his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth, was keen to serve on the front line during the Falklands conflict, despite some Cabinet members’ preference for him to take a desk job.
According to Robert McGowan of the Express, Andrew piloted a helicopter near HMS Invincible to attract Argentine missiles away from the ship.
He also co-piloted a Sea King helicopter in the daring rescue of sailors from the SS Atlantic Conveyor, which had been struck by Exocet missiles, an experience he described as the “most frightening moment of my war”.
The Falklands War erupted in 1982 after Argentine forces landed on the British overseas territory, long claimed by Buenos Aires.
The conflict resulted in the loss of 907 lives – 649 Argentinian, 255 British, and three Falkland Islanders.