As part of a long-standing royal tradition, 2025 will mark a significant change for Prince George as he begins preparations for his future role as King.

In just seven months, the 11-year-old will experience a major shift—one that will separate him from his parents and siblings due to an established royal rule designed to protect the line of succession.

For those needing a refresher, Prince George, the eldest child of Prince William and Kate Middleton, will celebrate his 12th birthday on July 22, 2025. While he is not expected to ascend the throne anytime soon, like future monarchs before him, much of his life will be dedicated to preparing for the role.

Currently second in line to the throne, George follows his father, Prince William, 42, and grandfather, King Charles III, 76. However, history has shown that succession can be unpredictable. Queen Elizabeth II became monarch at just 25 after her father, King George VI, passed away suddenly. His own reign was unplanned, as he had to step in following the unexpected abdication of his brother, Edward VIII.

Because the timing of a monarch’s ascension is uncertain, official preparations for Prince George are crucial. A key part of these preparations will begin in July 2025, when George will no longer be permitted to travel with his parents or siblings.

Since Prince William is first in line to the throne, royal protocol dictates that direct heirs should not travel together in case of a tragic accident, such as a plane crash. This measure ensures that at least one successor remains safe to maintain the stability of the monarchy.

Prince William followed the same rule, traveling with his family—including his parents and brother—until he turned 12. After that, he was required to travel separately.

King Charles’s former pilot, Graham Laurie, explained to OK! Magazine:

“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, and we could only fly all four together when they were young with written permission from Her Majesty. When William became 12, he would fly normally in a 125 from Northolt, and we would fly the 146 out with the other three on.”

Though not an official law, this unwritten rule has been followed for decades and is based on more than just superstition. Several royal family members have tragically died in air accidents, reinforcing the need for caution. Prince Philip’s sister, Princess Cecilie, died in a plane crash in 1937. In 1942, Queen Elizabeth II’s uncle, Prince George, was killed in a similar accident, and her cousin, Prince William of Gloucester, also lost his life in a plane crash in 1972.

That said, the travel rule is ultimately at the monarch’s discretion, meaning King Charles or Prince William could choose to modify or waive it.

Prince William himself has previously been granted an exception. In 2014, he and Kate received special permission to travel together with their three children during their Australian tour, prioritizing convenience over tradition.

At the time, the royal press office confirmed to BBC Newsround:

“They had to ask the Queen for permission, but she said yes. While there is no official rule on this, and royal heirs have traveled together in the past, it is something that the Queen has the final say on.”

Whether Prince George’s upcoming travel restrictions will remain in place or be adjusted remains to be seen, but as history has shown, royal tradition plays a significant role in shaping the path to the throne.