Flying high: Prince William takes to the skies for his first solo flight

However, he was feeling rather less serene a day earlier when he was suddenly told it was time for his first solo flight.

The prince, 25, who is on a four-month attachment to the RAF, was the first member of his 12-strong class at flying school to be allowed up without an instructor.

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Officer Wales: Prince William is enjoying his action man role

Getting ready for take off: William with his instructor Roger Bousfield

He passed the test comfortably. "God knows how somebody trusted me with an aircraft and my own life," he joked. "It was an amazing feeling. Going solo is one of those things, if you had a list of the top 50 things to do before you die, it would be in there.

"I was doing a few circuits then Roger, my instructor, turned round and said: 'Right, I'm going to jump out now,' and I said: 'What? Where are you going'

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Concentration: Prince William is an able student

Reflection: Prince William relives his first solo flight after landing

"He said: 'You're going on your own,' and I said: 'There's no way I'm going to do that,' but he said I was ready for it and jumped out.

"The next thing I knew I was taxiing down the runway and I was sitting there saying 'Oh my God, this is a bit odd, there's no one in here'. Once I'd taken off it was fine, you do all the things you've got to do and fly the circuit.

"Then I was watching the runway getting closer and closer and thinking, 'Please, please don't mess this up'."

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Sky high: Prince William takes charge of the plane

The prince was only eight days into his flying course when he was allowed to fly solo in a Grob 115E light aircraft, known as a Tutor, on Wednesday. Yesterday he was back in the air - with his instructor - above RAF Cranwell in Lincolnshire, where he is stationed with 1 Squadron of 1 Elementary Flying Training School.

Despite driving rain and wind, he even managed a commendable landing.

His instructor, Squadron Leader Roger Bousfield, said of the prince: "Flying solo after such a short period is a remarkable feat. He has a remarkable natural aptitude."

The prince's training is part of a four-month attachment with the RAF to help him get to grips with the service's traditions and role. His father earned his wings 35 years ago.

Gearing up: Prince William with his instructor Roger Bousfield

Taking in the view: Prince William flying over Lincolnshire