Prince Harry, Meghan Markle Face Backlash Over Alleged $12K-Per-Hour Jet Flight To Relocate to UK

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle face backlash after chartering a luxury private jet on Thursday for their relocation flight to the United Kingdom. The couple reportedly spent six figures on the ten hour journey from Los Angeles to Birmingham aboard a chartered aircraft. Aviation estimates cite costs of roughly $12,000, or £8,800.53, per hour for the ultra long range plane.

The royal move came after six years of living in Montecito, California, following their initial exit from official duties. King Charles III was reportedly informed of their planned return to Britain only days before the public announcement was made. An insider claimed that the monarch, who disclosed his cancer diagnosis in February 2024, played a major role in their decision.

Luxury Jet Chartered to Bring Family Dogs Along

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex chose to charter a Bombardier Global Express XRS aircraft through private aviation firm Planet 9. The opulent jet boasts two full bathrooms and plush seating arrangements capable of carrying up to thirteen passengers. It also offers five individual beds sleeping six people alongside extensive storage space for up to fifteen medium suitcases.

A source claimed the couple opted for private transport specifically to bring their beloved dogs along on the journey. Their black Labrador retriever named Pula and beagle named Mia successfully accompanied them across the Atlantic. It was confirmed that the private jet was fully refurbished in 2023 to offer updated amenities.

However, not all of their animals were packed up for this wild international flight. Their chickens will remain in California, including those housed at Archie's Chick Inn on their Montecito property. That famous coop previously appeared on screen during the Duchess's Netflix lifestyle series With Love, Meghan.

A Non-Royal Return to British Life

Palace officials confirmed that they were notified after news broke regarding the family's unexpected transatlantic journey. The couple plans to reside in the United Kingdom for an extended period starting this month. Instead of returning to royal duties, they will settle into a non-royal residence while managing private ventures and business stuff.

Their young children are expected to enroll in local British schools starting next month. This decision marks a dramatic shift for the family who permanently relocated to the United States back in 2020. The move represents their first sustained period living on British soil since stepping back as working royals.

The astronomical travel cost has sparked debate among observers considering the couple's previous public statements on climate issues. Critics on social media quickly voiced frustration over the lavish expenditure during a broader cost of living crisis. IBTimes UK cannot independently verify these claims, so take everything lightly.

Navigating the Shadows of Past Royal Rifts

The sudden return comes after years of strained relations between the couple and members of the Royal Family. In a March 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey, Meghan claimed royal family members questioned her unborn son's skin colour. The late Queen Elizabeth II later issued a statement saying the whole family was 'saddened' and that issues raised were 'concerning.'

Prince William publicly responded to the controversy by stating that the royals are 'very much not a racist family.' Tensions deepened following the 2023 publication of Harry's explosive memoir Spare, which detailed physical altercations between the brothers. The autobiography alleged that William physically attacked Harry during a heated argument over Meghan.

Sources indicate that the brothers remain distant and have made no immediate plans to meet in person. King Charles III reportedly looks forward to spending quality time with his son and grandchildren during their UK stay.

The couple seems determined to forge ahead with their UK plans despite intense public scrutiny. Whether this relocation bridges old family divides or creates new friction remains an open question for royal watchers.