As Prince George’s 12th birthday approaches, Prince William and Princess Kate are said to be rethinking an old royal travel rule that could soon be history.
For three decades, senior royals have been discouraged from flying together after the age of 12, a measure put in place to protect the line of succession in the event of a tragedy.
But according to insiders, the couple is actively discussing the possibility of ending the rule — and may even request a special exception from King Charles to continue traveling as a family beyond George’s birthday on July 22.
The tradition was strictly enforced when William himself turned 12, as confirmed by former royal pilot Graham Laurie.
Until then, both he and his younger brother Harry could fly with their parents, Charles and Diana, only with the Queen’s written consent.
Now, the Prince and Princess of Wales are reportedly in talks with advisors about whether it’s time to modernize this protocol for their own children.
Beyond travel logistics, the couple continues to chart their own course in parenting. They’ve made clear their intention to give George, Charlotte and Louis an upbringing that feels less royal and more relatable.
This has included enrolling them in co-educational schools outside London and prioritizing daily life over ceremony.
William has long emphasized his commitment to raising his children in a “real, living environment,” not behind palace gates.
Still, the family isn’t discarding all tradition. Prince George is expected to follow in his father’s footsteps by attending Eton College — a move that aligns with royal custom, even as his parents shape a more modern approach behind the scenes.