Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > Lincolnshire > Cranwell
Prince Albert preparing for flight in a Handley-Page bomber
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Prince Albert preparing for flight in a Handley-Page bomber
Prince Albert, later Duke of York and King George VI (1895-1952), as a Captain in the Royal Air Force to which he transferred from the Navy in 1918. Here he is preparing for a flight in a Handley-Page bomber at Cranwell, Lincolnshire. Date: 1918
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 20163049
© Bubblepunk / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Active Aviator Cranwell Goggles Jul17 Lincolnshire Overalls Pilot Preparation Preparing Sixth Albert
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Lincolnshire
> Cranwell
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Airplanes and aviation
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Naval warfare
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images July 2020
> Services
> Royal Navy
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures a young Prince Albert, later known as King George VI, in the throes of preparing for a flight in a Handley-Page Type O/400 bomber at Cranwell Aerodrome in Lincolnshire during the latter stages of World War I. Having transferred from the Royal Navy to the Royal Air Force in 1918, the Prince, who would later ascend to the throne in 1936, donned the uniform of a Captain in the RAF. The image shows the Prince in the cockpit of the Handley-Page bomber, clad in aviator overalls, goggles perched upon his head, and a serious expression etched upon his face as he checks the various instruments and switches before takeoff. The aircraft, a formidable machine of the era, looms large in the background, its menacing presence a stark reminder of the realities of war in the skies. The photograph, taken in 1918, is a testament to the Prince's courage and determination to serve his country in whatever capacity he could during the Great War. It also serves as a poignant reminder of the pivotal role that aviation played in the conflict, with the RAF playing a crucial part in both strategic bombing campaigns and air defense. As the Prince's preparations for flight reached their conclusion, he would have climbed into the cockpit, adjusted his goggles, and taken to the skies, joining the many brave men and women who fought in the skies above the battlefields of Europe. This photograph stands as a powerful symbol of the indomitable spirit of the RAF during World War I and the remarkable journey of a future monarch who answered the call to duty.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
