Royal Family Faces New Travel Protocol: George and Charlotte to Split Flights

In a significant shift for the royal family, Princess Charlotte and Prince George are set to travel separately starting next year.

This change comes as George approaches his 12th birthday, a milestone that triggers strict royal protocol regarding heirs to the throne.

According to established rules, heirs must not fly together once they reach this age, meaning George will soon have to board flights without his parents and younger siblings, including Charlotte and Prince Louis.

Prince George, the eldest child of Prince William and Princess Catherine, currently holds the second spot in the line of succession to the British throne.

His younger sister, Princess Charlotte, follows closely behind as third in line.

The couple has previously bent the rules by allowing their eldest children to accompany them on trips abroad, but this will no longer be possible once George turns 12.

Historically, Prince William and his brother, Prince Harry, navigated similar protocols during their childhood.

William, for instance, traveled with his parents until he reached the age of 12, after which he had to fly separately from the rest of the family.

This practice was initiated to ensure the safety of the heirs, a precaution that has been taken seriously by the royal family over the years.

The royal family has made exceptions in the past.

For example, Prince William and Prince George shared flights during their trips to Australia in 2014, Canada in 2016, and Germany and Poland in 2017.

In fact, during a tour of Australia and New Zealand, William sought permission from the late Queen to bring George along, showcasing the family's commitment to maintaining traditions while adapting to modern circumstances.