Gatwick pilot takes three-month-old granddaughter on her first flight

Robert Yallop, 63, made the trip from Gatwick to Turkey last week with little Maeve on board.

Tui pilot Robert said: "Flying has always been a part of my life and being able to take my granddaughter on her very first flight was a moment I’ll cherish for ever.

"I have been able to fly with my son Harry several times but having my son and future daughter-in-law on board made it all the more meaningful.

"It’s moments like these that remind me why I love what I do."

Robert Yallop, centre, holding his granddaughter Maeve with son Harry, left, and Harry's partner Jess (Image: TUI / SWNS)

The reunion at 41,000 feet saw three generations of family come together as Robert’s son Harry is a Tui First Officer and his partner Jess is cabin crew.

Harry and Jess, who live near Horsham, met and fell in love while working for the airline.

Harry said: “Whilst we all work for Tui and I have flown with my dad and Jess on separate occasions, we’ve never actually had the opportunity to all be on a plane together.

"With Maeve in tow for her very first flight, it made it extra special.

"I’m really looking forward to telling her one day that her grandad was the captain on her first flight.

"And I’m very thankful his landing was smooth enough for her to remain asleep.

“She absolutely loved being in the cockpit with her grandad, it was clear that aviation really does run in the family."

 Jess, who is currently on maternity leave, said the flight was a special memory for the family and something to look back on in years to come.