Princess Leonor de Borbón y Ortiz flew in an F-5 fighter jet during an instruction flight in Spain [1].
The flight represents a critical step in the princess's preparation for her future role as head of state. By undergoing rigorous military training, the heir apparent fulfills legal obligations and establishes a formal connection with the Spanish Armed Forces.
The Spanish Royal House released a video on Tuesday, May 5, 2026 [2], documenting the exercise. The flight took place earlier this month on April 22, 2026 [1]. Leonor flew alongside a military instructor at the Air Base of Talavera la Real in Badajoz [1].
This aviation exercise is not a standalone event but a component of a broader curriculum. The flight is part of the mandatory military training required of the Spanish heir apparent by royal decree [1], [2]. Such training ensures that the future monarch is versed in the operational capabilities of the nation's defense systems.
During the session, the princess operated within the cockpit of the F-5 military jet [1], [3]. The footage highlights the technical nature of the instruction and the coordination required between the student and the instructor. The Royal House said the release showcases the princess's commitment to her military obligations.
The use of the F-5 jet provides a specific training environment for the heir to understand high-performance aircraft operations. This progression from ground-based training to aerial instruction marks a transition in her military education as she moves toward the completion of her required service.
“The flight is part of the mandatory military training required of the Spanish heir apparent by royal decree”
The public documentation of Princess Leonor's military training serves a dual purpose: it fulfills the legal requirements of the Spanish monarchy and functions as a strategic public relations effort. By emphasizing her role within the military, the Royal House reinforces the legitimacy of the monarchy's tie to the state's defense apparatus, ensuring the future queen is viewed as a commander-in-chief with practical experience.
