Pope Leo's flight to Rome delayed by technical issue; King lends jet

Pope Leo's visit to Spain concluded with an unexpected delay as his departure flight from Tenerife to Rome encountered a technical problem. The issue arose after the pontiff, his staff, and accredited journalists had already boarded the aircraft. The crew identified the fault, prompting everyone to disembark.

Initially, the Pope and his close aides left the plane and proceeded to a VIP lounge at the airport. A brief assessment revealed that repairing the aircraft would take considerable time, leading to further flight delays. In response to the critical situation, King Felipe VI generously offered his own Falcon jet, which he had used for his travels, to ensure the pontiff's swift return to the Eternal City.

This gesture allowed Pope Leo to continue his journey without further significant interruption. He, along with Vatican Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin and other high-ranking clergy, eventually departed from Tenerife. They are expected to arrive in Rome around 11 p.m. local time. The journalists accompanying Pope Leo XIV on his trip will travel on a separate Iberia flight.

This unforeseen development is likely to result in the cancellation or postponement of the Pope's customary press conference, usually held during the return flight from international trips. The incident highlights the logistical challenges that can arise during high-profile papal travels.