Airlink's Low Flyover Over Cape Town Stadium Sparks Safety Concerns
Airlink's low flyover of Cape Town's DHL Stadium during a rugby test drew criticism, but the airline says it was approved.
A formation flyover by two Airlink aircraft above Cape Town's DHL Stadium on Saturday has ignited a debate over aviation safety, with spectators and commentators questioning the wisdom of flying so close to a packed venue.
The flypast, which took place ahead of the Springboks-All Blacks Test match, saw the two planes pass over the stadium at an altitude reported to be just over 50 feet. Many on social media described the manoeuvre as unsafe and irresponsible.
In response, Airlink, Southern Africa's premier airline, issued a statement clarifying that the event was not spontaneous. The airline said the flyby was carefully planned and rehearsed in advance, and that it had received the necessary approval from the Civil Aviation Authority.
The display featured two of the carrier's bespoke-liveried Embraer aircraft — an E190 in green and an E195 in black — reflecting the colours of the two competing teams. The aircraft also bore the official tour logo for the Castle Double Malt Rugby's Greatest Rivalry Series.
Airlink described the flyby as a memorable formation display intended to set the stage for the highly anticipated match between South Africa and New Zealand.