Leonor, Princess of Asturias has completed her second solo flight as part of her military aviation training at the General Air Academy in San Javier, flying the Pilatus PC-21 training aircraft used by the Spanish Air and Space Force.
Images released by the Royal Household show the heir to the throne piloting the aircraft independently—marking a significant step in her progression as a cadet. Her first solo flight, known in aviation training as a “release,” took place on December 18, with the second occurring in recent weeks, although no exact date was disclosed.
The newly published photographs also document other aspects of her training, including exercises alongside fellow cadets and group sessions with instructors at the San Javier academy.
Training progression
Princess Leonor joined the academy in September as a fourth-year cadet with the rank of second lieutenant, entering at a more advanced stage due to her prior military training in other branches. Her flight instruction follows the standard progression for cadets: initial theoretical coursework, simulator training, and supervised flights with an instructor before being cleared for solo operations.
The Pilatus PC-21, which has replaced the older C-101 jet trainer, is now the primary aircraft used for advanced pilot training in Spain.
Next steps
The update coincides with confirmation that the Princess will pursue a degree in Political Science at the Carlos III University of Madrid after completing her three-year military training programme, part of her preparation for her future constitutional role as head of the armed forces.
Her continued progress in flight training is seen as a key milestone within that broader military and institutional formation.
