LONDON (AP) — Prince William is completing his final shift in his job as an air ambulance pilot as he gets ready to take on more extensive royal duties.

The heir to the British throne is working the night shift Thursday at the East Anglian Air Ambulance, where he has been flying medical crews to emergencies such as traffic accidents for about two years.

As the older generation of royals slows down, the younger members of the family are stepping in to do take on more official roles, such as foreign visits. William says he's been "so proud to serve" and has "profound respect" for the emergency services staff.

William and his wife, the former Kate Middleton, will also be spending more time in London, where their son, George, is due to start school.