Pope Leo travels by helicopter to Cusco during Latin American tour

Pope Leo XIV sat in the cockpit of a Peruvian Air Force helicopter and waved to crowds as he travelled to Cusco during his Latin American tour. The visit drew attention to his stamina as he continues recovering from lung cancer surgery, and to his message about faith and community in the Andes.

The 71-year-old’s 12-day trip covered Argentina, Uruguay and Peru, with more than 12 flights and over 18,600 miles travelled. In Cusco, about 11,000 feet above sea level, he praised processions and religious festivals for bringing people together and passing on faith, particularly to young people. Crowds gathered despite drizzle, while his next engagements included backing Indigenous efforts to protect Amazonian lands and calling for justice for environmental defenders.