An unexpected technical problem forced Pope Leo XIV to delay his return to Rome last Friday (12), following an incident with the aircraft that was transporting him from the Canary Islands. The diplomatic situation was promptly resolved with the intervention of King Felipe VI, of Spain, who made one of his planes available to the pontiff. The setback occurred at the end of an important seven-day trip through Spain, largely dedicated to the issue of migration.
Technical problem on papal plane requires quick solution
After being greeted by the Spanish monarch at Tenerife North airport, Pope Leo XIV boarded the plane that would take him back to the Vatican at around 5:15 pm (local time). However, a few minutes later, he had to disembark. An engine failure prevented the aircraft from taking off. In response, King Felipe VI offered his private Falcon, allowing the Pope and part of his entourage to leave at around 7:10 pm, ensuring the Catholic leader’s agenda would be followed.
Context of the Pope’s apostolic visit to Spain
Pope Leo XIV’s seven-day trip to Spain was marked by an intense agenda, focused on crucial issues for the Catholic Church. The pontiff visited several cities, including Madrid and Barcelona, as well as the Canary Islands. In all places, he was received by crowds, such as the open mass in Madrid, which brought together more than one and a half million faithful. This was the Pope’s fourth international trip since his election in May 2025 and the first of a sovereign pontiff to Spain since Benedict XVI, in 2011. The visit reinforces the country’s importance for the Vatican, even in a scenario of declining religious practice.
Warning about the migration issue in the Canary Islands
One of the highlights of the Pope’s visit to the Canary Islands was the public denunciation of indifference towards migrants. During a mass in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which was attended by around 40 thousand faithful, Leo XIV expressed deep concern about the loss of life at sea, a route frequently used by those seeking refuge in Europe. The pontiff emphasized that “we cannot get used to counting the dead”, appealing for greater humanity and solidarity in the face of the migration crisis.
Impact and legacy of the papal presence in the Iberian country
Despite the small plane incident at the close, Pope Leo XIV’s visit is seen as a significant milestone for the Church in Spain. The country, traditionally a Catholic stronghold, has faced a decline in religious practice in recent years. The Pope’s presence sought to reaffirm the faith and mobilize Catholic youth, who, although a minority, demonstrate great fervor. The agility in resolving the aircraft problem, with the cooperation of the Spanish monarchy, also highlights coordination and institutional respect in highly relevant events such as a papal trip.
