LONDON Prince Willliam has completed an advanced helicopter training course that takes him one step closer to becoming a fully qualified search-and-rescue pilot with Britain's Royal Air Force.

William - second in line to the British throne - graduated Friday at the Defence Helicopter Flying School based at RAF Shawbury, 168 miles (270 kilometers) northwest of London.

His girlfriend Kate Middleton was among those attending the 30-minute graduation ceremony at the airbase, rising to her feet and clapping as William graduated with fellow Royal Air Force students.

His father Prince Charles presented William with his flying badge. William will now begin another flying course at RAF Valley in Wales later this month.