Next time you take flight, you just never know who might be at controls. It could be king. Holland's King Willem-Alexander has just revealed he has been secretly flying planes for Dutch carrier KLM for past 21 years, completely unbeknown to his passengers. 50-year-old king got his military pilot's license as member of Royal Netherlands Air Force when he was in his twenties. He developed love of flying and trained to become commercial pilot. He revealed his secret life as pilot in interview with Dutch media. He flew for KLM twice month. The king said he was now preparing to upgrade his skills. He is back on aircraft simulator to train to fly Boeing 737s.
King Willem-Alexander told reporters that his passion for flying meant he could relieve all stress while up in skies. He explained: "You have aircraft, passengers and crew. You have responsibility for them. You can't take your problems from ground into the skies. You can completely disengage and concentrate on something else. That, for me, is most relaxing part of flying." He said it was easy to keep his anonymity while flying, and that very few passengers ever knew he was piloting their plane. He said: "I always say that I wish everyone heartfelt welcome on behalf of captain and crew. I don't have to say my own name, but most people don't listen anyway."
