Prince William now a helicopter pilot

LONDON, Sept. 17 (UPI) -- Britain's Prince William, saying "I absolutely love flying," qualified to fly helicopters Friday, graduating as a pilot for the Search and Rescue Force.

William, second in line to the throne, will join the 22 Squadron, C Flight, as an operational co-pilot in a Sea King Mk3 helicopter, based at the air force base in Anglesey, The Daily Telegraph reported.

"The course has been challenging, but I have enjoyed it immensely," the prince said in a statement. "I absolutely love flying, so it will be an honor to serve operationally with the Search and Rescue Force, helping to provide such a vital emergency service."

The 28-year-old prince spent the last 18 months taking flying courses on various types of helicopters to train for his assignment, the Telegraph said.

A palace spokesman said it would be several weeks before Prince William experiences his first 24-hour shift because he must learn the terrain and landing sites crews regularly are asked to fly during day and night exercises.