Prince George’s 12th birthday will usher in a royal tradition that blends ancient precaution with modern logistics. The young prince, as second in line to the throne, will soon need to travel separately from his father Prince William on official trips, following a protocol that protects multiple heirs from sharing the same risks. This thoughtful rule, while rarely discussed publicly, has guided royal travel decisions for generations.
The practice isn’t about limiting family time but ensuring the monarchy’s stability. Former royal staff recall how Prince William similarly began flying independently after turning 12, with only occasional exceptions for family vacations approved by the late Queen. For George, this means future state visits and royal tours will require careful flight planning, though private family trips may still see them travel together with King Charles’ permission.
This subtle shift represents George’s gradual transition into his role as future king. While the change won’t affect his daily routine, it marks one of many behind-the-scenes preparations that shape royal heirs. The monarchy has always balanced personal family life with public duty, and George’s upcoming travel independence perfectly illustrates this ongoing tradition of thoughtful succession planning.
