Peru's Ministry of Defense has unveiled a Mi-17 helicopter named the 'Popcopter' to serve Pope Leo XIV during his visit to Peru from 11 to 16 November.
On 28 October 2026, Peru's Ministry of Defense introduced the Mi-17 helicopter named 'FAP Papacóptero' (Popcopter) to provide transportation for Pope Leo XIV during his official visit to Peru from 11 to 16 November.
In addition to the main helicopter, three more Mi-17s are prepared for support. Each can carry up to 24 passengers, transport up to 4 tons, fly continuously for 3.5 hours, and operate day and night using night vision equipment.
These helicopters will transport the Pope and his entourage between Chiclayo and Santa Cruz de Zucchabamba in the highlands of the Cajamarca region, as well as within Lima and Cusco. The Peruvian Air Force has also prepared two medium-sized helicopters, Bell 212 and Bell 412, for medical emergencies, capable of transporting patients on stretchers to hospitals or clinics with helipads, supported by aviation medicine doctors and nursing staff.
For the mass ceremony scheduled on 16 November at Las Palmas Air Base in Surco district, the two helicopters will be on standby to handle emergencies involving the Pope, his entourage, or attendees. Additionally, a Beechcraft King Air 360C air ambulance is ready to transfer critical patients, including those on stretchers and infants requiring incubators.
. Source: AP