Pope Francis returns to Rome on Spanish king's Falcon after flight glitch

Pope Francis concluded his week-long visit to Spain with a stop in Tenerife. A technical problem forced the cancellation of the planned return on an Iberia Airbus A320. The Vatican arranged for the Spanish monarch, King Felipe VI, to provide his personal Falcon jet for the Pope and a small delegation, while the press corps traveled separately on another aircraft. The Falcon departed Tenerife North Airport at 18:08 local time and arrived at Rome's Fiumicino Airport at 23:05, completing the papal itinerary.

During the Spanish trip, the Pope engaged extensively with crowds, offering blessings, embracing the faithful and speaking directly to the public. Observers noted a more emotive, hands‑on style compared with his earlier public appearances, emphasizing personal connection and humanitarian outreach alongside his formal diplomatic duties.