Two popemobiles that will be used during Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Peru arrived from Brazil aboard a LATAM Cargo aircraft, as part of a special logistics operation carried out under an agreement with Peru’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and in coordination with General Motors. The vehicles were transported along with protective structures designed to safeguard their cabins.
The direct flight, operated by a Boeing 767-300F aircraft dedicated exclusively to cargo transportation, departed from Viracopos Airport in Campinas, Brazil, bound for Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. Due to the vehicles’ dimensions and specific characteristics, the operation required between six and eight hours of preparation on the airport ramp, as well as specialised procedures to ensure their proper handling and transportation.
“We are proud to contribute to such an important event. The transportation of the popemobiles demonstrates LATAM Cargo’s ability to plan and execute special operations efficiently and safely, thanks to the dedication and expertise of our teams,” said Otavio Meneguette, Director of LATAM Cargo Brazil, who was present during the operation at Viracopos Airport.
Preparations included calculating weight distribution inside the aircraft, securing the vehicles with specialised tie-down systems on cargo platforms, and using hydraulic equipment for loading. Approximately 20 people were involved in the preparation and loading process in Brazil, while another team of around 20 employees was responsible for receiving and unloading the vehicles in Lima.
The Chevrolet popemobiles are part of the preparations for Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Peru, scheduled for November 11–16, with activities planned in Lima, Chiclayo, Cusco, and Pucallpa. Their arrival marks another milestone in the preparations for an event of special significance to the country.
