Airlink’s two Embraer E-Jets carried out a planned low-level formation flypast over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium before the South Africa-New Zealand rugby Test on 29 August, prompting an online safety debate after video footage spread widely. The manoeuvre, flown in front of more than 56,000 spectators, drew scrutiny because the aircraft appeared to pass very close to the stadium roof, even as the airline maintained the operation was conducted within approved limits.
The flypast was carefully planned and rehearsed with guidance, approval and support from the South African Civil Aviation Authority and Air Traffic Navigation Services. Airlink defended the display by pointing to flight-data records that it said showed both aircraft remained within the authorised altitude and speed parameters for the event. The crews involved were described as highly experienced, and the airline argued that the visual impression in the footage does not by itself prove any breach of aviation rules.
The public reaction has centred on whether the close-looking pass complied with safety requirements, although no independent regulator finding or enforcement outcome has been reported. The event took place ahead of one of South Africa’s highest-profile rugby fixtures, which amplified the visibility of the operation and the response to it.