Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, is set to be honored as a living legend of aviation at the 21st Annual Living Legends of Aviation Awards in Beverly Hills. The induction ceremony, hosted by John Travolta, aims to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of aviation and aerospace. However, the announcement has raised eyebrows among several royal watchers, with some describing the honor as “bizarre” and “ridiculous.”
Prince Harry’s Military Aviation Background: Prince Harry, the younger son of King Charles III, served as a helicopter pilot in the British Army during his military tenure. He underwent training on missions in the U.S., U.K., and Australia and flew combat missions in Afghanistan. The Duke was awarded his Flying Wings in 2010 after completing an eight-month army pilot course, where he learned to fly fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters.
Controversial Recognition: Despite his military service and accomplishments in aviation, the decision to honor Prince Harry as a living legend of aviation has been met with skepticism. Royal experts, speaking to Fox News Digital, expressed their concerns, questioning the criteria used for his selection and highlighting his recent activities airing personal grievances rather than focusing on aviation achievements.
Jonathan Sacerdoti, a British broadcaster and royal commentator, remarked that the award seemed more about enhancing Harry’s brand than recognizing significant contributions to aerospace. Others questioned whether Prince Harry’s achievements as a pilot, while commendable, warranted the prestigious title of a living legend of aviation.
Criticism and Comparison: Hilary Fordwich, a British royals expert, questioned the objective criteria by which Prince Harry distinguished himself from other military pilots and raised doubts about his significant contributions to aviation that set him apart. The comparison was made to Prince William, his older brother, who served as an air ambulance pilot and, according to some critics, faced fewer risks due to his status as heir to the throne.
Christopher Andersen, author of “The King,” acknowledged Prince Harry’s contributions to the Invictus Games but questioned whether those accomplishments qualified him as a living legend of aviation. The comparison was made to the courage and immense skill displayed by countless pilots who risked their lives without receiving such accolades.
Mixed Reactions: While some royal experts criticized the decision, Ian Pelham Turner suggested that the recognition could also be attributed to Prince Harry’s role as the creator of the Invictus Games. Pelham Turner emphasized Harry’s bravery as a helicopter pilot, flying into fire-powered environments to rescue injured personnel, which earned him respect from colleagues.