Prince George has surprised royal fans by stepping out for his second official engagement with his mum Princess Catherine. The prince, 12, visited the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight at RAF Coningsby with The Princess of Wales ahead of Armed Forces Day.

Looking smart in a shirt and blazer with suit trousers, George was all smiles as he enjoyed sitting in the pilot seat of an aircraft at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire. Proud mum Princess Catherine also got to sit in the pilot’s seat during their visit. Sharing a video of the trip online, Kensington Palace also released a statement to mark Armed Forces Day today.

The statement read: “Honouring Service and Sacrifice. Marking Armed Forces Day by reflecting on time spent with the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight at RAF Coningsby.

“Learning about the extraordinary history of these aircraft and meeting the pilots and engineers who keep their legacy alive.

“A powerful reminder of the courage, skill and dedication of those who serve, past and present. Thank you to all those who have served and continue to serve.”

It is believed it was just Princess Catherine and Prince George from the Royal Family on this particular visit to the RAF base.

One person wrote in the comments of the Instagram post: “Can’t believe we got a lovely engagement of Princess of Wales and Prince George how lovely.”

Someone else said: “Aww what a wonderful surprise!!! I’m sure Prince George absolutely loved this visit with his mother.”

Another person commented: “Mother Son Engagement so beautiful.”

George has always had an interest in aircraft, as can often be seen on the Buckingham Palace balcony during events like Trooping the Colour, when the soon-to-be teenager looks excited at the aircraft that fly overhead.