THE sky was literally the limit for Eastleigh Carnival's royal court.

For carnival queen Charlotte Howard, accompanied by princesses Katie Freemantle and Elizabeth Sides, took to the skies to survey her domain.

The royal trio and Eastleigh mayor Councillor Gillian Connell had earlier been welcomed at Southampton International Airport by managing director David Cumming.

Then the carnival court was treated to a scenic flight with Carrill Aviation, the Southampton Airport-based flying school.

Elizabeth, 11, said: "This was my first flight ever. It was really exciting and the view was fantastic. We flew over Eastleigh and I saw swimming pools and parks. I cannot wait to go flying again, it was a really special day."

Southampton Airport's fire service took part in last Saturday's carnival procession. Richard Anderson, leading airport firefighter, and Phillip Willis, airport firefighter from Green Watch, joined the procession in one of the airport's fire engines.

Mr Cumming said: "We have supported the Eastleigh Carnival for many years now and are delighted to be part of the celebrations.

"I believe that working in partnership with our local community is an integral part of our business here at Southampton Airport."