On June 12, 2026, Pope Leo XIV experienced an unexpected travel delay on his return trip from Spain. His chartered Iberia flight was grounded at Tenerife Norte-Los Rodeos International Airport, in the Canary Islands, due to a technical problem.

Fortunately, King Felipe VI of Spain stepped in to assist. He provided his private jet, the Falcon, for the Pope’s return to Rome. The King personally escorted Pope Leo XIV to the Falcon, ensuring his safe departure more than three hours after the intended time.

“Even popes have travel delays”

This incident marked an unusual conclusion to the Pope’s successful visit to Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands. During his trip, Pope Leo XIV focused on spreading his message about migration and inaugurated the new tower of the Sagrada Familia basilica.

The Iberia plane’s engine failed to start, causing all passengers to disembark. Iberia sent another aircraft from Madrid to retrieve Vatican officials and journalists left behind. The incident is notable because it has been decades since a papal flight faced such a significant issue requiring a change of planes.

Veteran Vatican reporters recalled similar situations during St. John Paul II’s tenure. In 1986, a snowstorm forced a plane to land in Naples instead of Rome, and in 1988, weather issues led to an unexpected landing in South Africa during a trip to Lesotho.

Papal trips customarily involve chartered flights. Usually, Italy’s ITA Airways handles these trips. The Pope and the Vatican delegation sit at the front, while approximately 70 journalists travel in the back. On this occasion, Iberia proudly documented Pope Leo XIV in the cockpit during parts of the trip, highlighting the respect and honor given to visiting dignitaries.