Salsa legends in luggage limbo
Puerto Rico’s legendary salsa orchestra El Gran Combo has hit an unexpected snag ahead of their Tenerife performance—their instruments, costumes, and team luggage were lost by Iberia Airlines in Amsterdam. The group took to Facebook with a mix of frustration and humor, posting: “Dear fans: Our instruments, costumes, and several team bags decided to party in Amsterdam without us… Iberia still can’t find them, even though our AirTags show exactly where they are!”
Concerts hang in the balance
With shows scheduled this week in Tenerife and Milan, the band urgently called on fans to help pressure Iberia. “We’re ready to perform, but we need Iberia to do their part so the salsa keeps playing as it should. Can you lend a hand?” they wrote, asking followers to tag the airline and demand immediate action. Despite the setback, the group remained defiant: “As long as the world wants to dance, El Gran Combo will play!”
Airline responds amid fan uproar
Iberia replied publicly to the post, stating: “We understand the situation and want to provide full support to locate your belongings.” The airline requested incident details and a baggage reference number, promising to expedite the search. After this exchange, the band thanked fans for their support and confirmed Iberia had reached out privately to resolve the issue.
A musical institution
Founded in 1962 by Rafael Ithier, El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico is one of salsa’s most iconic groups, with a six-decade legacy of shaping the genre. Their Tenerife concert promises to be a highlight for Canary Islands music lovers—if their gear makes it in time.
