Prince George turned 12 on July 22, marking a significant change in the royal rule of traveling with Prince William. A new report reveals experts’ claims that Prince William and his eldest son will no longer travel together by air. Reportedly, royals follow this tradition to preserve the line of succession to the British throne.
‘Experts’ say heirs cannot fly together because they need to ‘preserve’ the line of succession
According to the royal rule, Prince William and his eldest son, Prince George, might not travel together by air anymore. Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams told Fox News Digital regarding the same. They stated, “The Prince and Princess of Wales and their children are the future of the royal family.”
The expert added, “Accidents do happen, and this seems like a sensible precaution which ought to be observed, as it was with King Charles and William during Queen Elizabeth’s reign.” Fitzwilliams also noted reports suggesting some disagreement on the matter between King Charles and Prince William.
“But it should be necessary to point out that Harry is fifth in line to the throne,” Fitzwilliams continued. He noted, “Only four working royals are under 70.” The expert emphasized, “The need for Prince George as second in line to the throne to fly separately from his father surely makes sense.”
British broadcaster Helena Chard explained, “Traditional royal travel protocol expects a future heir to travel separately from their father, especially when 12 years old. Direct heirs should not fly together.” Chard added, “Previous generations left children at home with governesses when traveling. This, however, caused a lot of upset for the children. King Charles can vouch for this; he desperately missed his parents when they were away on tour.”
Although the guideline is long-standing, it is not without exception. Royal expert Hilary Fordwich pointed out, “Rules, such as not traveling by plane or car together, now that Prince George is 12, are unwritten but a tradition. This ensures that the next in line and heir are not lost. It has, on occasion, been relaxed or bent.”
Additionally, Prince William and Princess Catherine have occasionally balanced royal rule with a modern approach. With Prince George turning 12, the travel protocol is “to ensure continuity should one die in a travel accident,” per Ian Pelham Turner.
