More than 268,000 journeys were made on Tenerife’s public transport network during the historic visit of Pope Leo XIV on 12 June, according to figures released by the Cabildo de Tenerife.
The island’s special transport and emergency operation was activated to manage the arrival of thousands of people attending events in La Laguna and Santa Cruz, including the Pope’s farewell Mass at the capital’s port.
More Than 210,000 Passengers on TITSA Buses
TITSA buses carried 210,045 passengers throughout the day, supported by an additional 10,000 seats introduced to meet increased demand.
The reinforced service played a key role in reducing private vehicle use and helping visitors reach the main event locations amid road closures and traffic restrictions across the metropolitan area.
Tram Network Carried Almost 59,000 Passengers
Metrotenerife’s tram network recorded 58,683 passengers, operating double units and increased frequencies of every ten minutes to cope with demand.
Services gradually returned to normal from 2pm, with full operations restored by 4pm.
Large-Scale Operation Across the Island
The visit required a major logistical effort, particularly around Santa Cruz, where more than 30,000 people gathered for the Pope’s final Mass before departing Spain.
Around 500 professionals participated in the operation, including staff from TITSA, Metrotenerife, Tenerife Fire Service, Cruz Roja, emergency services, road maintenance teams and volunteers.
More than 400 security personnel, 18 ambulances, 15 medical patrols, six fire crews and over 50 volunteers formed part of the deployment.
53 Medical Incidents Attended
A temporary field hospital was installed at the Recinto Ferial de Tenerife to support healthcare services during the event.
Medical teams attended 53 incidents, most of them related to the high temperatures experienced throughout the day. According to the Cabildo, all cases were resolved quickly and effectively.
Positive Assessment from the Cabildo
Tenerife Cabildo President Rosa Dávila praised the work of all those involved and highlighted the island’s ability to manage an event of international significance.
“Tenerife has once again demonstrated its capacity to organise and manage international events successfully, thanks to coordination between public administrations, the professionalism of our services and the exemplary behaviour of residents and visitors,” she said.
The Cabildo described the overall operation as highly successful, with public transport, traffic management and emergency services responding effectively throughout a day that brought global attention to Tenerife.