Former Royal Prince Harry, who relinquished his royal duties to settle in California with his wife Megan Markle, faces an awkward situation as several aviation legends have declined invitations to his upcoming award ceremony.
Scheduled to receive the Living Legend of Aviation Award at a Beverly Hills event on January 19th, 2024, hosted by John Travolta, the accolade is bestowed by a self-appointed group of 100 aviation and aerospace luminaries aiming to honor individuals of exceptional accomplishment in these fields.
Despite the intention to recognize extraordinary achievements in aviation and aerospace, many aviation experts and enthusiasts have criticized the decision to honor Prince Harry. Known for his decade-long service as a helicopter pilot in the British Army, critics argue that his flying experience and accomplishments pale in comparison to past recipients like Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, Chuck Yeager, and Amelia Earhart.
Among the critics refusing attendance is Bob Hoover, a legendary test pilot and airshow performer, considered one of the greatest pilots in history. Hoover expressed dismay at Prince Harry's award, deeming it a farce and an insult to true legends who risked their lives and made history with their flying skills.
Bert Rutan, a renowned aerospace engineer and designer known for groundbreaking aircraft like the Voyager and SpaceShipOne, echoed this sentiment, labeling Prince Harry's award as disgusting and undeserved. Patty Wagstaff, a three-time US national aerobatic champion and National Aviation Hall of Fame member, expressed bafflement at Prince Harry's award, emphasizing that he doesn't fit the criteria of an aviation legend.
Wagstaff pointed out Prince Harry's exploits in tabloids and Netflix, highlighting his royal status and personal drama as sources of fame and fortune rather than true contributions to aviation.
Critics have also questioned Prince Harry's credibility as an aviation advocate, pointing to his and Megan Markle's alleged hypocrisy on environmental issues. They suggest that the award should go to The Duchess of York, formerly Sarah Ferguson, the first member of Britain's royal family to gain a private helicopter pilot's license.
Despite their Netflix deal and public stance on climate change, Prince Harry and Megan Markle face accusations of jetting around the world on private planes and residing in a lavish, high-carbon footprint mansion. Prince Harry's award ceremony comes at a time when his and Megan Markle's popularity has waned globally, particularly in the UK, following their controversial interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2023.
While Prince Harry has not commented on the award or the ensuing criticism, he is expected to attend the Beverly Hills ceremony alongside Megan Markle and their two children, Archie and Lilibet. The event will also feature other celebrities and honorees, including Elon Musk, Tom Cruise, and Harrison Ford.
