The plane carrying the Pope to Gran Canaria features Canarian religious symbols

The Iberia aircraft has been adapted with Vatican details and the Virgin of Candelaria for the official visit.

Airbus A320 aircraft on an airport runway with a volcanic landscape in the background.
IA

Airbus A320 aircraft on an airport runway with a volcanic landscape in the background.

Pope Leo XIV arrives this Thursday in Gran Canaria aboard an Iberia Airbus A320, specially equipped with symbolic and religious elements for his official tour of Spain.

The aircraft, departing from Barcelona, has been prepared to host the Pontiff and his official delegation. Among the most notable adaptations, the plane features the papal coat of arms next to the main boarding door, along with decorative elements that blend Vatican identity with the culture of the Canary Islands.
A central element of the journey is the presence of the image of the Virgin of Candelaria, patron saint of the archipelago. This Marian representation will accompany the Holy Father during his flight to Gran Canaria and his subsequent trip to Tenerife, reinforcing the spiritual component of this historic visit.
The onboard experience also includes a culinary proposal based on quality products and a musical selection performed by the Escolanía de El Escorial. This musical detail holds a personal connection to the Pontiff, who was part of the Order of Saint Augustine before assuming his current responsibilities.
The arrival on the island, scheduled for 10:50 AM, has mobilized local administrations and security forces due to the anticipation of thousands of faithful. This landing marks the beginning of an intense schedule of institutional and religious events to be held across the archipelago.