Pope Leo XIV Returns to Rome in Aircraft Lent by King Felipe VI After Technical Issue

Pope Leo XIV returned to Rome from Spain on June 13, 2026, using an aircraft provided by King Felipe VI of Spain. The arrangement followed a technical problem with the Pope’s own aircraft at the conclusion of his apostolic visit, according to reports from Vatican News and G1.

The pontiff’s scheduled departure was interrupted when his plane experienced a technical failure. To facilitate the return to the Vatican, King Felipe VI ceded a royal aircraft to transport the Pope, Vatican News reported.

Why did Pope Leo XIV change aircraft?

A technical issue rendered the Pope’s original aircraft unavailable for the flight back to Rome. While the specific nature of the mechanical failure was not detailed in the initial reports, multiple outlets confirmed the disruption occurred just as the apostolic journey in Spain concluded.

Gazeta do Povo reported that the Pope utilized the borrowed jet specifically to ensure his return to Italy after the technical complication emerged.

How did the Spanish government respond?

King Felipe VI provided a jet from the Spanish royal fleet to serve as the Pope’s transport. G1 reported that the Pope was “escorted” by the King following the aircraft issue, while VEJA characterized the gesture as the King offering the pontiff a “ride” back to Rome.

The use of a state aircraft for a foreign head of state is a standard diplomatic protocol during technical emergencies, though the direct involvement of the monarch was highlighted by several news agencies.

What was the purpose of the visit?

The flight marked the end of an apostolic trip to Spain. These journeys typically involve diplomatic meetings, religious services, and public addresses intended to strengthen ties between the Holy See and the host nation.

The transition from the Pope’s aircraft to the royal jet allowed the itinerary to conclude without significant delays to the pontiff’s schedule in Rome, according to Vatican News.