As second in line to the British throne, Prince George has lived an extraordinary life since he was born on July 22, 2013. But by George's 12th birthday in 2025, he may have to start observing one of the strictest royal protocols — he must travel separately from his parents for safety reasons.
According to sources, 10-year-old Prince George is expected to follow the travel rules that his father, Prince William, had to follow when he was 12 years old. According to the guidelines set by his great-grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, the heir is not allowed to fly on the same plane as other family members for security reasons.
This means that after July 2005, Prince William will no longer be able to fly with his father, Prince Charles, stepmother, Queen Camilla, and younger brother, Prince Harry. He had to fly on another plane, which was equipped to the highest standard, but kept his distance from the rest of the royal crew.
This rule was restored and strictly adhered to during the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, as she wanted to minimize all risks to the future king. It seems that Prince George's parents, now the Prince and Princess of Wales, also had to start implementing the agreement in George's case a few years later.
I can imagine that it will be a difficult change for George and his parents. From an early age, the young prince enjoyed leisurely airplanes with William, Kate, and his siblings, where they could relax like a family. But being a monarch-elect does come with unique responsibilities and security measures. Royal expert Victoria Abbitt commented.
She further stated that William and Kate may have some discussions with George ahead of time to prepare him for the adjustments that need to be made. "At his age, George understands that his role is important. I'm sure Prince William will assure him that even if they never fly together again, their family bond will always be strong. ”
Graham Laurie, a former royal pilot, also confirmed that this policy of "no joint flights" was strictly adhered to by the princes. On the podcast The Right Royal Podcast, he fondly recalls all the family flights he took with William, Harry, Charles and Diana.
We used to take them to and ...... battlefieldUntil Prince William was 12 years old. Since then, he has been traveling separately from his family. For example, we will send Prince Charles, Princess Diana, and Prince Harry to events. Prince William will then fly on another plane. ”
In June 2005, when William turned 12, he had to fly on another plane and could only fly with his family with the Queen's express written permission, Laurie said. Understandably, she wants to take all the safety precautions in place for her eventual successor.
When asked how the princes were adapting to the changes, Laurie replied that while it was an "operational necessity", both boys behaved very well. "They travelled very well as children. I don't really remember a lot of things. ”
So when his 12th birthday arrives in 2025, George may have to say goodbye to those glamorous domestic flights with his parents and siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis. Security experts say traveling separately will minimize all threats and mitigate any risks that may arise due to mechanical failures, terrorist activity or adverse weather conditions.
It does make one wonder how the future king will react to his new solo status, though. Thankfully, George, who grew up in a royal family, seems ready to understand etiquette rather than personal comfort. Like his father, Prince William, he is sure to adapt to these changes with maturity, care, and grace.
There is no doubt that Kate and William will provide endless comfort in the transition. They will help their older son deal with the new reality of flight with emotional support, clarity and sensitivity. In the years leading up to the age of 12, the family will also take the opportunity to travel within and outside the UK to create special memories.
While Prince George may not be flying with his parents for safety reasons, he also has unique privileges as the heir to the throne. From a very young age, he will gain first-hand experience of visiting his future kingdom, something his great-grandmother, the late Queen never had.
Thus, although responsible protocols limited his ability to travel as a family unit, they also strengthened his sense of role. With the wisdom, care and commitment of his parents, it seems that George will steadily carry out his duties from the age of 12 – whether flying alone or with the service staff who support him.
Under his dedicated leadership, the future of the British monarchy remains bright.