Kate 'hugely grateful' to staff who safely landed royal couple's flight when caught in thunderstorm

The Duchess of Cambridge has said she was "hugely grateful" to everyone involved in the safe landing of the couple's aircraft after it was caught in a thunderstorm.

William and Kate had an unexpected overnight stay in Lahore after the storm forced their flight to Islamabad on the RAF Voyager to turn back on Thursday evening.

It meant royal aides and diplomats had to hurriedly re-arrange their schedule, and find the couple and their entourage a place to stay.

She said: "We were looked after so wonderfully by the RAF who did a great job."

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at the Army Canine Centre

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The unexpected overnight stay meant a planned visit to a Pakistani military post on the Afghan border and a flight over the famous Khyber Pass had to be cancelled.

But the couple still embarked on their other scheduled engagement of the day — a visit to an army canine centre in Islamabad which is modelled on the UK’s Defence Animal Training Centre at Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire.

Britain is supporting Pakistan’s programme to counter improvised explosive devices.

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in Pakistan - In pictures

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The royals joined handlers as they train dogs to recognise and scout out hidden explosives.

The couple privately praised aides and British High Commission officials for coming up with emergency back-up plans so quickly and with minimal fuss.

They will later travel back to the UK following their hugely successful five-day trip on behalf of the British government, which has seen them follow in the footsteps of William’s mother Diana.

Princess Diana visiting Pakistan - In pictures

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Surprised guests had a glimpse of the duke and duchess today as they left the five-star Pearl Continental Hotel in Lahore on Friday.

Kate wore a traditional white kurta from Pakistani brand Élan in another nod to local fashion as she and William left the city.

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