Hangar8 Aviation has used one of its aircraft to wish Prince George of Cambridge a happy first birthday. The young prince has racked up an estimated 33,000 'heir miles' in his first year and according to research is helping to alter the public perception of the UK royal family. In celebration of this the UK operator, headquartered at London Oxford airport, repainted one of its Challengers in 'Happy Birthday Prince George' livery from tip to tail. The design was made by award winning British studio Andrew Winch Designs, which specialises in aviation, yachts and architecture.

The market cost of this exercise would be around £120,000, which Hangar8 believes makes it the world's most expensive 'birthday card'. Ceo Dustin Dryden comments: “In just a year, Prince George has travelled many miles by going to the Caribbean island of Mustique on holiday and then on his official trip to New Zealand and Australia.

“Our research shows that he has had a very positive impact on the majority of people, and certainly enhanced the strong reputation of the Royal Family even further.”

Jim Dixon, head of aviation at Andrew Winch Designs adds: “Our work on wishing Prince George a happy first birthday has been one of our most fun assignments. We always strive to design exquisite vvip interiors and offer ramp appeal on first sight.”