See how the pope travels by air on 'Shepherd One'

There's Air Force One, Air Force Two and Marine One – all nicknames for aircraft the U.S. president and vice president use while traveling.

But have you heard of Shepherd One?

It's the nickname used for the plane the pope uses during official Vatican business.

Pope Leo on April 13 embarked on a nearly two-week trip to Africa to visit the countries of Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea. It marked his first major international trip since becoming pontiff last year.

So how does the bishop of Rome and spiritual leader travel by air? What airplane is he using to go Africa? Here's what to know about the aircraft he uses when traveling the world.

Does the pope have a private plane?

The pope does not have his own plane. Nor does the Vatican.

He usually travels by charter on Italy's flagship airline, ITA Airways, according to information from The Vatican.

During a March 26 speech to employees of the Italian national flag carrier at Clementine Hall at The Vatican, the pope confirmed he is using the airline for his Africa trip.

The history of popes traveling by air began with Saint Paul VI, when he flew Alitalia, which ceased operations in 2021 and was replaced by state carrier ITA Airways.

"My Predecessors and the collaborators who accompanied them on their international journeys found in the personnel of Alitalia and ITA not only qualified and experienced professionals, but also people capable of creating a serene, I would say almost family-like, atmosphere, where respect goes hand in hand with devotion," the pope said, thanking the airline's professionals for their service.

What airlines does the pope fly?

In addition to ITA Airways, the pope has also flown American Airlines, according to the airline's website.

In September 2015, American transported Pope Francis on a Boeing 777-200 from Washington, DC, to New York, Philadelphia and back to Rome on his first trip to the United States.

At the time, the airline reported, it was the seventh time it had transported a pope.

The crew of the 2015 papal charter including American pilots and flight attendants, who represented different faith backgrounds.

The seat used by Francis was later removed from the aircraft, according to the airline, and transported to the C.R. Smith Museum in Fort Worth, Texas.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X @nataliealund.