So, Pope Leo XIV had a bit of an adventure on his way back from Spain. He was all set to fly from Tenerife to Rome on an Iberia A320, but one of the engines wouldn't start. Seems like the strong winds at Tenerife Norte played a role here. They tried repositioning the plane to fix it, but no luck. In the end, King Felipe VI stepped in with a Falcon jet from the Spanish state, and the Pope took off with a smaller group, leaving the rest of his entourage behind to catch another flight.
It's not every day you hear about the Pope getting a plane swap after boarding. I guess it shows that even the most planned-out flights can hit snags. It's good to know safety always comes first, though. Better to stay grounded than risk taking off with an unresolved issue.
Anyone else think it's pretty cool that King Felipe was just there to offer a backup jet? Also, why do you think Tenerife Norte has more of these weather-related challenges compared to the south? Would love to hear your thoughts!
It's not every day you hear about the Pope getting a plane swap after boarding. I guess it shows that even the most planned-out flights can hit snags. It's good to know safety always comes first, though. Better to stay grounded than risk taking off with an unresolved issue.
Anyone else think it's pretty cool that King Felipe was just there to offer a backup jet? Also, why do you think Tenerife Norte has more of these weather-related challenges compared to the south? Would love to hear your thoughts!