Meanwhile, another royal tradition is set to affect Prince George in the near future.
At 11 years old, George is already accustomed to following strict royal protocols alongside his younger siblings, Charlotte and Louis. Even at school, they use different names, formally known as George Wales, Charlotte Wales, and Louis Wales, in recognition of their parents’ titles. This follows the same pattern as Prince William and Prince Harry, who were known as William Wales and Harry Wales during their school years.
However, when George turns 12 in July 2025, he will be required to travel separately from his family during royal visits and tours. As the second in line to the throne, he won’t be allowed to travel with his father, Prince William, who is the direct heir. This rule ensures that if a tragedy were to occur, the royal succession remains intact.
King Charles’ former pilot, Graham Laurie, explained the protocol to OK! Magazine: “We flew all four: the Prince, the Princess, Prince William, and Prince Harry, up until Prince William was 12 years old. After that, he had to have a separate aircraft, and we could only fly all four together when they were young with the written permission of Her Majesty.”
This unwritten rule has been in place for decades due to past royal tragedies, including the deaths of Prince Philip’s sister, Princess Cecilie, in 1937, Queen Elizabeth II’s uncle, Prince George, in 1942, and her cousin, Prince William of Gloucester, in 1972.
However, the rule is ultimately at the monarch’s discretion, meaning King Charles or Prince William could adjust it if they choose.
In fact, William previously broke tradition in 2014 when he and Kate were granted permission to fly with their children together for their Australian tour. At the time, the royal press office confirmed to BBC’s Newsround: “They had to ask the Queen for permission, but she said yes.”
While traditions continue to shape the royal family’s future, exceptions have been made in the past, leaving room for possible changes in the years ahead.
