Just when we thought the Duke of Cambridge had everything, his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth, gave him a special – and expensive – gift for his birthday. On Saturday, Prince William turned 32 and reportedly received a 2008 Agusta A109S Grand helicopter from the British monarch. The total cost? A whopping $13.6 million (8 million pounds sterling)! Even though the Queen banked a reported $66 million last year, funds to cover the cost of the helicopter came from the sovereign grant—essentially, money from the government.
An example of a 2008 Agusta A109S helicopter. Photo Credit: AV Buyer.
According to reports, the helicopter – which will be used for travel to and from official engagements – can hold up to seven passengers plus one pilot, can travel at a maximum speed of 180 miles per hour, has a rear cabinet with a bar and weighs nearly 1,600 kilograms when empty!
The new gift fits Kate Middleton's husband perfectly given he is a helicopter pilot – previously known as Flight Lt. William Wales – who served in the Royal Air Force (specifically the Search and Rescue Force). He gave up his duty in September 2013, which as we all remember, was two months after his son, Prince George was born.
UK's The Daily Mirror was the first to report this story.
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