Flights to Rome searches 'surge' ahead of Pope Francis' funeral (2025)

The 88 year old Pontiff died on Easter Monday after a stroke lead to heart failure

Searches for flights to Rome skyrocketed just hours after the Vatican announced the passing of Pope Francis. The 88-year-old died on Easter Monday - leaving 1.3 billion Catholics around the world in mourning.

The pontiff's cause of death was confirmed as stroke which lead to subsequent irreversible heart failure. A statement released by Cardinal Kevin Farrell on April, 21 read: “At 7.35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his Church.

“He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised.

"With immense gratitude for his example as a true disciple of the Lord Jesus, we commend the soul of Pope Francis to the infinite, merciful love of God, One and Tribune.″

Following the Pope's death, Google searches for 'Rome flights' surged by 371% in the UK. Yesterday, mourners gathered in their thousands to honour the late pontiff with crowds spilling onto the streets of Rome and the Vatican City.

Thousands more are believed to be planning to head to the city to pay their respects throughout the official nine days of mourning.

The data, by Vatican Tickets & Tours, revealed that searches for ‘Rome flights’ exploded to over four times their average volume, describing it as an 'unprecedented increase' in searches for flights to Rome.

Magdalena Petrusic, Travel Expert at Vatican Tickets & Tours says: “Pope Francis was loved and respected throughout the world, and there will be many in the UK who want to visit Rome to pay their respects.

"Among many things, Pope Francis was known for his commitment to peace, harmony between nations, calling for an end to war and working to care for the earth that is our home, and it is no surprise that many are looking into flights to Rome to pay homage at this momentous time”

The Pope has been laid out in an open coffin at the Vatican for the Confirmation of the Death of the Pontiff ceremony.

It was reported the placement of his body in the coffin took place at the Chapel of Santa Marta last night.

Recently released pictures show the Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin praying in front of his body, which was laid out in state inside his private chapel at the Vatican.

First Minister John Swinney posted a tribute on X, which said: "It is with deep sadness I heard the news this morning of the death of Pope Francis.

"He was a voice for peace, tolerance and reconciliation in our society. He brought comfort, assurance and hope to many. May he Rest in Peace."

Pope Francis died after suffering health issues in recent weeks, including an extended stay in hospital where he was treated for bronchitis.

The pontiff became pope in 2013 after his predecessor Benedict XVI resigned.