William and King Charles III Clash Fiercely: Private Helicopter for Kate and Her Three Kids Sparks Fury
Earlier this year, King Charles III and Prince William argued over the safety of the royal family while flying together in a helicopter.
King Charles III is said to have disapproved of his eldest son’s family travelling together on the same plane. Photo: UK Press
The disagreement between senior members of the Royal Family is detailed in a new book about Kate by Robert Jobson, Catherine, Princess of Wales . According to the author, the 75-year-old king “raised his concerns” to William about his shared use of a helicopter with Kate and the children, which is said to have caused tension between father and daughter.
In an excerpt from the book, King Charles III became concerned about the issue after being diagnosed with cancer in February. The king even gave William – an experienced pilot – a brochure about the risks involved and asked him to take full responsibility for his actions if anything went wrong.
King Charles III and Prince William at a joint event in May. Photo: Chris Jackson
King Charles III’s concerns were similar to those of his late mother. Queen Elizabeth II also asked her grandson not to fly by helicopter with the family from Kensington Palace to Anmer Hall, Norfolk (about 185 km).
A royal aide revealed that the late queen was determined to keep her opinions to herself after being traumatized by the 1967 helicopter crash that killed the flight’s captain. According to People , Buckingham Palace does not comment on the monarch’s private conversations or views. However, the palace will take into account the safety and security of members of the royal family when deciding on the most appropriate mode of transport.
William and Kate and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis. Photo: Max Mumby
In other chapters of the book, Kate is praised for her influence on William – especially when it comes to the prince’s tensions with his father. A source told Jobson that Kate “is someone who always tries to see both sides of any disagreement” and is the “emotionally mature” one in the couple’s relationship.
King Charles III also appreciated the positive impact his daughter-in-law had on his son, according to the book. “I think the king understood that Catherine had a good influence on the whole family. He loved her and really appreciated everything she did,” the author writes.
