Flying Separately: A Difficult Change for a Close-Knit Family

According to royal expert Jennie Bond, this rule most likely applies only to air travel rather than all forms of transportation.

“This is a rule which I think applies only to flying, not to other methods of transport,” she told The Mirror. “Nevertheless, it’s going to be rather annoying for the family because they are such a tight little unit and obviously enjoy travelling together.”

She went on to add, “However, I think there will be pressure on William to stick to this rule—at least most of the time. It’s all to do with protecting the succession to the throne.”

Helping George Understand the Change

Bond acknowledged that this tradition could be tough for a 12-year-old to accept. Still, she believes Prince William and Princess Kate will handle the matter thoughtfully.

“It must be quite hard for a 12-year-old to accept,” she said. “But I’m sure Kate and Will will explain the situation as gently as possible to all three children.”

That said, the expert doesn’t believe George will be sent off flying entirely on his own. A more likely solution would be for the family to split into groups—perhaps with George flying with Kate, while William takes Charlotte and Louis.

Will the Rule Be Followed—or Broken?

Though tradition suggests the separation rule should now kick in, there’s always a chance William could choose to overlook it.

Still, until the family makes their next travel plans public, we’ll have to wait and see how—or if—the rule is enforced.