South African aviation regulator reviews low stadium flyover, next event cancelled due to weather
South Africa's aviation regulator is reviewing a low stadium flyover by two Airlink passenger jets over Cape Town's DHL Stadium. The dramatic flyover, which occurred before a rugby union Test match, sparked international debate and concerns about risk. The South African Civil Aviation Authority stated that Airlink had followed all necessary procedures, including a simulator practice flight, but has initiated compliance verifications and is obtaining flight data. Flightradar24's analysis indicated the lead aircraft was 12.5 to 14 meters above the stadium's highest structure, where approximately 58,000 people were present. Airlink, a Springbok sponsor, denied recklessness, citing "Planning. Precision. Performance." and emphasizing safety. A planned repeat flyover for a September 5 Test in Johannesburg has been cancelled due to unfavorable weather conditions. Airlink has offered its precise flight data to the regulator's review.
