Pope Leo’s journey back to Rome following a seven-day visit to Spain was postponed Friday after his aircraft encountered mechanical difficulties.
The pontiff’s Iberia flight, which also carried Vatican personnel and media representatives, was getting ready to move toward the runway when the pilot informed passengers of a maintenance concern.
Pope Leo had already taken his seat on the aircraft after Spanish officials, including King Felipe, had bid him farewell. Following the announcement of the technical problem, the king accompanied the pontiff back into the airport terminal.
