Prince William becomes search and rescue captain

LONDON - Royal officials say Prince William has qualified as an operational search and rescue captain in the Royal Air Force.
 
The prince's office, Clarence House, says that William -- known as Flight Lt. Wales in the military -- will now be able to command search and rescue operations in Sea King helicopters. Previously, he had only co-piloted the aircraft.
 

Clarence House said Thursday that William had completed two days of ground and air-based tests to achieve the qualification, including scenarios such as a search for two missing kayakers and extinguishing a simulated fire on a vessel.
 

It says the tests are the culmination of nearly two years of flying experience and study.
 

Officials say the captaincy qualification does not alter William's rank.