Amid landing protocols, there was room for a very special greeting. An air traffic controller asked permission from the pilot of the plane carrying Pope Leo XIV to dedicate a few words of welcome to him upon his arrival in Peru. Emotion got the better of her, and she couldn’t hold back the tears.
After concluding his apostolic journey through Argentina, the Holy Father landed at Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima on November 11.
During preparations for his arrival, and once standard protocols had been completed, a control tower worker asked the pilot for authorization to address the Pontiff directly. She wanted to express the joy she felt in welcoming him back to his homeland.
A Message Full of Faith for the Holy Father
“Holy Father, from the control tower at Jorge Chávez International Airport, Peru rises up today to welcome you and say to you with joy, as Psalm 118 says: ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord,’” she began.
The controller also shared the anticipation of the Peruvian people for the Pontiff’s arrival and her hope that his presence would bear spiritual fruit in the country.
“We are expectant for what God will do through you, for the words that may touch many hearts, and for the message that will turn our gaze back to Jesus. May your visit strengthen our faith and encourage us to live a little more like Jesus,” she added.
Finally, her voice breaking with emotion, she concluded her remarks with an affectionate welcome:
“Welcome home, Dad and Pope Leo XIV! Welcome to the entire crew.”
When she finished speaking, the pilot confirmed to the controller that Pope Leo XIV had heard her words and deeply appreciated the greeting.
¡Se quebró! La emotiva bienvenida de una controladora aérea al papa León XIV 🥹✈️🇵🇪 La emoción se hizo presente en los cielos peruanos. Una controladora aérea dedicó unas conmovedoras palabras al papa León XIV desde la torre de control del aeropuerto internacional Jorge Chávez, durante su llegada al Perú.
— TVPerú Noticias (@noticias_tvperu) November 11, 2026