In brief
A dramatic low‑altitude flypast by two Airlink aircraft over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium, just before a high‑profile rugby match, has sparked debate. The airlines crew declared the maneuver carefully planned with support from aviation authorities. Video footage shows the planes flying less than 50 feet above the stadium’s roof, prompting some viewers to question safety while others praised the pilots’ skill. Airlink highlighted the experienced crew and rehearsed safety protocols, and the stunt has become a part of South Africa’s sports tradition, echoing the historic 1995 World Cup flypast. Public sentiment largely leans towards national pride and admiration for South African aviation talent.
The South African airline Airlink defended its controversial low‑altitude flypast over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium, where two of its aircraft performed a tight 45‑degree formation just feet above the stadium roof.
The stunt took place moments before a rugby match between South Africa and New Zealand, with smoke flares marking the kickoff. Video footage captured the planes passing less than 50 feet (15 metres) above the stadium’s top, drawing widespread attention on social media.
Some commentators labeled the maneuver reckless, raising concerns about risk to thousands of fans below. Others praised the pilots’ precision and the aircrafts’ adherence to safety protocols, describing the event as a showcase of South Africa’s exceptional aviators.
In a statement distributed via government news channels, Airlink emphasized that the flypast was carefully planned in collaboration with aviation authorities and executed by a team of seasoned senior captains and technical officers. The airline stressed that approved altitude and speed limits were observed throughout the rehearsal and the actual flight.
Public reaction largely expressed pride, with sports minister Gayton McKenzie's X post describing the stunt as “spectacular” and a testament to South Africa’s world‑class pilots. The flypast echoes the 1995 Rugby World Cup final flyover over Johannesburg’s Ellis Park, an iconic moment immortalised in the film Invictus.
