As Prince George celebrates his 12th birthday on 22 July, a time-honoured royal protocol quietly comes into effect — one that could have lasting implications for how he travels with his family.

While the young prince spent the day with his parents, Prince William and Princess Kate, and younger siblings Charlotte and Louis, this milestone marks more than just another candle on the cake. It also signals the point at which royal tradition begins to treat him not just as a child, but as a future monarch-in-waiting.

Why Prince George may no longer fly with Prince William

It’s a longstanding — though unofficial — royal custom that direct heirs to the throne do not travel together. The reason is rooted in preservation: to avoid the risk of multiple heirs being endangered in the same incident.

Historically, this rule came into play when Prince William turned 12 in 1994. From then on, he was no longer allowed to fly in the same aircraft as his father, King Charles (then Prince of Wales), or his brother Harry, unless granted special permission from the reigning monarch.

Graham Laurie, the former royal pilot, once recalled: “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.”

While this rule has rarely been enforced strictly in recent decades, the intention remains. George, as second in line to the throne, is now viewed through a different lens within palace protocol — as someone who must be protected not only as a son, but as a future king.

A precaution rooted in history

The tradition, while not enshrined in law, is underscored by past royal tragedies. Several members of the royal family — including Prince Philip’s sister Princess Cecilie and Queen Elizabeth’s cousin Prince William of Gloucester — died in air crashes during the 20th century.

These sobering reminders reinforce the logic behind separating heirs when travelling. Though modern aviation is far safer today, the symbolism and duty of the Crown still call for such precautions.

It’s worth noting that any continued joint travel between Prince George and his father would require formal consent from King Charles III. And while the family has, at times, opted to fly together in recent years — especially when the children were younger — decisions moving forward are expected to reflect George’s new status.

For now, Prince George remains firmly in childhood, likely unaware of the logistical considerations being made on his behalf. But his 12th birthday quietly marks a shift — a subtle reminder that even for the youngest members of the royal family, duty begins early.