By Catherine McGeer • Published: 14 Oct 2025 • 13:06 • 1 minute read
Princess Leonor proudly represents Murcia Image: Facebook/ Fernando Lopez Miras
Princess Leonor, heir to the Spanish throne, proudly wore the Air and Space Force uniform during Spain’s National Day parade, drawing admiration across the country and filling the Region of Murcia with pride. The occasion highlighted her connection to San Jier, where she is currently training at the General Air and Space Academy (AGA).
Following in her father’s footstepsPrincess Leonor, now known by her rank as alférez Borbón (Second Lieutenant Borbón), has joined the 78th class at the academy in Santiago de la Ribera, the same place where her father, King Felipe VI, trained as a cadet in 1987–1988. Her decision to follow this path underlines her commitment to public service and her growing role within Spain’s modern monarchy.
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Her training involves an intensive program that includes learning to fly the Pilatus PC-21 training aircraft. Before taking to the skies, she will complete at least 50 hours on simulators, making sure she meets the same demanding standards as her fellow cadets. Her daily schedule starts at 6:30am and ends at 10:00pm, with no special privileges despite her royal status.
A busy year of service and studyAlongside her military training, the princess continues to represent Spain at major national events. She appeared at the Día de la Hispanidad (Spain’s National Day) parade in Madrid, where she stood in uniform beside her family, symbolising unity between the Crown and the armed forces. Princess Leonor will also attend the upcoming Princess of Asturias Awards and other official visits, balancing her duties with a demanding academic and flight training program.
Pride for Murcia and SpainThe AGA in San Jier has undergone significant upgrades in recent years, including new facilities and flight simulators to support training in iation, drones, and space operations. Colonel Asenjo, head of the academy, confirmed that the number of cadets has risen to 483 this year, with women now representing 18.1 per cent of the total.
Defence Minister Margarita Robles praised Princess Leonor as “a positive example of dedication and professionalism” for Spain’s youth. Her presence at the academy continues to shine a national spotlight on Murcia, reinforcing the region’s role in shaping the country’s next generation of military leaders.
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