Pope Leo XIV Rides in Cockpit During Peru Tour

Pope Leo XIV recently shared a cockpit with pilots from the Peruvian Air Force while continuing his journey through Latin America. The military branch shared video footage of the journey on social media, describing the presence of Pope Leo XIV as an unforgettable memory and a distinct privilege for the crew.

Following the flight, the pontiff traveled to Cusco on Sunday. This southern Andes Mountains settlement previously served as the center of the Inca empire. During his visit to an ancient Inca fortress in the region, the leader addressed the public regarding modern societal divisions. He stated that religious traditions could assist in overcoming an era defined by mistrust, wounds, and fractures, while emphasizing that faith ought to draw people together through love and light.

Pope Leo XIV shared a military cockpit before delivering a message of unity in Cusco.

This leg of the international journey holds deep personal significance for the religious leader. Between 1985 and 2023, he spent extended periods living in Peru and eventually acquired citizenship in the country back in 2015, which helped him build strong bonds with local populations.

Why it matters

The visit highlights the pontiff's long-standing personal ties to Peru and offers a platform for messages regarding unity amidst societal divisions. It impacts local communities in the Andes region and followers worldwide who observe the Latin America tour.