Kate Middleton and Prince William are proactively preparing their eldest son, Prince George, for his future role as king. As he approaches the age of 12 on July 22, significant adjustments will need to be made for his safety as he becomes the heir apparent to the British throne. One of these changes includes adherence to a longstanding royal rule that restricts the travel arrangements for heirs.
According to GB News, there is a stipulation in place that prevents certain royals from flying together on the same plane. This rule aims to ensure the safety of the heir to the throne during any potential travel incidents. Once Prince George reaches the age of 12, it is expected that he will no longer be permitted to travel on the same aircraft as his father, the Prince of Wales, or his siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
Graham Laurie, a former royal pilot, highlighted this royal regulation during a conversation on Hello! magazine’s “A Right Royal Podcast.” He noted that he previously flew with King Charles, Princess Diana, Prince William, and Prince Harry together until William turned 12. After that, separate flights became standard practice, permitted only under specific conditions. “Nowadays, for instance, The King can’t fly with the Prince of Wales,” Laurie elaborated.
Royal expert Robert Jobson also weighed in on this transition, acknowledging the complexities that arise when children are required to travel separately from their parents. While he understands the rationale behind this rule, he expressed some skepticism about its necessity during commercial flights or similar situations.
The protective measures surrounding royal heirs underscore the complexities of royal life and the need for stringent safety protocols. These adjustments, while challenging, aim to ensure that Prince George can fulfill his future responsibilities with the utmost security. As the royal family navigates these changes, it reflects the balancing act between tradition and modernity, highlighting their commitment to maintaining the royal lineage’s safety and integrity.