Prince William and Kate Middleton just broke royal protocol on their family holiday

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Another day, another Royal story.

Prince William and Kate Middleton are undoubtedly the most talked-about couple in the world, making constant headlines for their work as both full-time royals and hands-on parents to three miniature Cambridges.

This week, it was their holiday plans that hit the headlines as it was reported that the Cambridges were taking advantage of the half term, with the Duke and Duchess taking their children off on a well-deserved break.

The family of five were spotted at Heathrow airport on Thursday, joined by their trusted nanny Maria Teresa Turrion Borrallo.

It is not yet known where they are planning to visit, but it wasn't the location that got the world talking. It was instead their seeming to break protocol that hit the headlines.

The protocol in question discourages royal family members from travelling together in the same aircraft or vehicle. This is particularly a rule for heirs to the throne. Essentially, the rule was put in place so as not to threaten the line of succession should an accident occur.

According to sources, the Queen has the final say on whether families can fly together and the Cambridges certainly seem able to, especially while their children are young.

Well, that's that.

The royal family has not commented on the protocol.

Jenny Proudfoot
Features Editor

Jenny Proudfoot is an award-winning journalist, specialising in lifestyle, culture, entertainment, international development and politics. She has worked at Marie Claire UK for seven years, rising from intern to Features Editor and is now the most published Marie Claire writer of all time. She was made a 30 under 30 award-winner last year and named a rising star in journalism by the Professional Publishers Association.