Pope delivers in-flight press conference with Brussels Airlines
October 1, 2024
His Holiness Pope Francis has concluded his Apostolic Journey to Belgium with a special press conference held aboard a Brussels Airlines A320neo bound for Rome’s Fiumicino Airport.
The Holy Father’s visit to the European nations of Belgium and Luxembourg (between 26-29 September) marked his second Apostolic Journey this month and his 46th such mission abroad, explained the Vatican News. During his time in Belgium, the Pope celebrated Mass at Brussels’ King Baudouin Stadium, celebrated the 600th anniversary of two Catholic universities, and met with victims of sexual abuse.
His trip culminated in a farewell ceremony at Melsbroek Military Airport, where the Pope, members of his delegation and over 80 members of the media boarded a chartered Brussels Airlines A320neo (flight number SN119, registration OO-SBE), a brand-new aircraft that had only joined the airline’s fleet in May.
“At Brussels Airlines, due to our home airport Brussels, we’re used to having VIPs on board, as Brussels is also the capital of the European Union and houses the headquarters of NATO. Nonetheless, this special charter flight was quite a challenge,” explained a spokesperson for Brussels Airlines, who confirmed the airline’s planning had started months in advance of the event.
“Carrying one of the most influential world leaders on board didn’t just come with many additional safety measures. Departing from the military airport in Melsbroek with over 80 journalists also required us to set up a mobile check-in at the hotel where the delegation was located, in order to be able to process all the check-in luggage”.
“On board, His Holiness hosted a press conference with a sound system that was installed on board for the occasion,” continued Brussels Airlines. AP reports that the Church’s traditional views on women and abortion were among the topics discussed during the journey; subjects that continue to remain divisive.
“His Holiness also enjoyed our signature Belgian catering. We opted for a light fresh meal as His Holiness already had some more extensive dinners during his stay in Belgium. This suggestion was appreciated by the Vatican,” concluded the airline spokesperson.
The Pope typically travels with airlines on his travels (having previously favoured the now-defunct Alitalia and ITA Airways) as the Vatican does not own its own aircraft.
