The conclusion of Pope Leo’s week-long visit to Spain took an unexpected turn on Friday when a technical problem forced the grounding of the aircraft scheduled to carry him back to Rome. The incident occurred at Tenerife Airport shortly after the pontiff had completed his official engagements and was preparing to depart for the Vatican.

In a gesture reflecting the close relationship between Spain and the Holy See, King Felipe of Spain offered the use of a Spanish Air Force Falcon jet to ensure the Pope’s safe and timely return. The decision allowed the papal delegation’s leadership to continue its journey while alternative arrangements were made for the remaining passengers.

Technical Malfunction Halts Scheduled Departure

Pope Leo had already boarded the Iberia-operated aircraft when crew members detected a technical issue that prevented the plane from departing as planned. Airport officials and airline technicians immediately began assessing the situation while passengers remained on board.

Shortly afterward, the Pope and other travelers were asked to disembark. Witnesses reported that King Felipe personally accompanied the pontiff back to the terminal building as engineers worked to determine the cause of the malfunction.

According to announcements made by the flight crew, the problem may have been linked to difficulties starting one of the aircraft’s engines. Initial assessments suggested that weather conditions, including strong winds in the area, could have contributed to the issue. However, technicians were unable to resolve the problem quickly enough to allow the flight to proceed.

The incident resulted in a significant delay and required authorities to implement contingency plans to ensure the continuation of the Pope’s journey.

Spanish Royal Support Ensures Swift Solution

Following confirmation that the aircraft would remain grounded, Spanish authorities coordinated an alternative travel arrangement. The government announced that a Falcon jet regularly used by the Spanish royal family would transport Pope Leo and several senior members of his delegation directly to Rome.

The decision underscored Spain’s commitment to supporting the Vatican delegation and avoiding further disruption to the Pope’s schedule. The royal aircraft, known for its reliability and operational flexibility, was prepared at short notice and made available for the mission.

Government officials emphasized that ensuring the comfort and security of the pontiff remained the highest priority. The move was also widely viewed as a symbol of goodwill and cooperation between Spanish institutions and the Catholic Church.

The remaining members of the papal delegation, along with journalists accompanying the visit, were assigned to another aircraft dispatched from Madrid to complete the journey later the same day.

Diplomatic Visit Ends with Unexpected Aviation Challenge

Despite the travel disruption, Pope Leo’s visit to Spain was regarded as a successful diplomatic and pastoral mission. During the week-long tour, the pontiff participated in religious ceremonies, met with political leaders, and addressed thousands of faithful across the country.

The unexpected aircraft issue became the final chapter of an otherwise smoothly organized visit. Aviation experts note that technical inspections and precautionary measures are standard procedures in commercial aviation and are designed to prioritize passenger safety above all else.

Iberia later confirmed that the aircraft had experienced a technical problem but did not provide detailed information regarding the nature of the fault. The airline also stated that a replacement aircraft was sent from Madrid to ensure all remaining passengers could continue their journey safely.

While the delay attracted significant public attention due to the high-profile nature of the passengers involved, officials stressed that all safety protocols were followed correctly and that there was never any immediate danger to those on board.

Conclusion

The grounding of Pope Leo’s scheduled flight in Tenerife created an unexpected logistical challenge at the end of his visit to Spain. However, the swift response by Spanish authorities and the personal assistance provided by King Felipe ensured that the situation was resolved efficiently. The use of a royal aircraft allowed the Pope to continue his journey to Rome with minimal additional delay, transforming a potentially disruptive incident into an example of effective cooperation, diplomacy, and commitment to passenger safety.

https://www.reuters.com/world/popes-return-home-spain-delayed-plane-suffers-technical-issue-2026-06-12/