Airlink Defends Dramatic Low-Level Flypast Over Packed Cape Town Stadium

South African regional airline Airlink has defended a dramatic low-altitude flypast over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium, saying the manoeuvre was carefully planned, rehearsed and conducted within approved aviation procedures.

Two Airlink Embraer jets performed the flypast shortly before South Africa faced New Zealand in a rugby Test on August 29. Flight-tracking analysis indicated that the lead aircraft passed approximately 41 to 46 feet above the stadium roof, prompting concerns over the narrow clearance above thousands of spectators.

Airlink said the operation was conducted with aviation authorities and involved experienced senior captains aboard both aircraft. The airline maintained that recorded flight data showed the aircraft remained within the approved altitude and speed limits.

The spectacle has nevertheless sparked debate among aviation observers, with critics questioning whether such a low-level manoeuvre was appropriate over a densely packed stadium. Airlink has maintained that the flypast was an authorised and carefully controlled display rather than an unsanctioned stunt.