Pope Leo XIV’s Return Flight from Tenerife Disrupted by Engine Failure
A rare technical issue forced a change of aircraft for the papal party, delaying the Pope's return to Rome by more than three hours.
On June 12, 2026, Pope Leo XIV’s return flight from Tenerife, Spain, to Rome was canceled due to a technical issue with the aircraft, leading to a change of plane for the papal party and a delayed departure.
Incident Details
The Pope had boarded an Iberia Airways charter flight in Tenerife when an engine failure was discovered ahead of takeoff. The Pope and part of his entourage disembarked. King Felipe VI of Spain offered a Spanish Air Force Falcon 900B jet as an alternative. The Pope departed on the King’s plane more than three hours behind schedule.
A separate replacement aircraft was arranged for approximately 80 journalists and Vatican officials. The traditional in-flight press conference with the Pope did not take place due to the change of aircraft.
Background and Context
The incident marked the first time in decades that a papal flight required a plane change due to a technical problem. Similar incidents during the papacy of John Paul II included a forced landing in Naples due to snow in 1986 and a diversion to South Africa due to weather in 1988.
On papal trips, the Pope typically flies with the destination country’s national carrier for the return journey.
Papal Visit to Spain (June 6–12, 2026)
The Pope’s visit to Spain included several public events:
- Madrid: The Pope celebrated a Mass and held a procession attended by approximately 1.2 million people. He also addressed the Spanish parliament, receiving a seven-minute standing ovation.
- Barcelona: A Mass was held at the Sagrada Familia basilica, where the tower of Jesus Christ was blessed. The basilica was noted as the tallest church in the world.
- Santa Cruz, Tenerife: The Pope visited the Las Raices migrant camp, where he met migrants.
- Private Meetings: The Pope held private meetings with survivors of abuse.
Statements
During the flight to Spain, the Pope acknowledged that his visit coincided with a concert by rapper Bad Bunny in Madrid. The Vatican confirmed a brief private meeting between the Pope and Bad Bunny.
While in Tenerife, the Pope condemned those involved in human trafficking, stating that such individuals should "stop" and "repent" and would face "divine justice."