‘Best pilots in the world’: Gayton McKenzie reacts to viral flyover at Boks vs All Blacks match

South Africans celebrated a double delight this weekend, as the Springboks secured a thrilling 33-26 victory over the All Blacks at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium. However, the highlight was not on the field – moments before kick-off, two Airlink Embraer E190 aircraft performed a spectacular fly-past overhead. The aircraft, one adorned with Springbok colours and the other with All Blacks livery, soared through the sky, eliciting cheers from the packed stadium crowd.

Experienced Airlink pilots carefully rehearsed the fly-past, receiving the green light from the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA). The awe-inspiring display quickly became an international sensation, with videos of the aircraft seemingly hovering above the stadium roof going viral on social media. Airlink’s Public Relations Manager Gayton McKenzie praised the pilots, asserting South Africa’s reputation for having the "best pilots in the world."

He humorously suggested a future fly-past where the planes might even land on the field. The fly-past resonated with the public, with Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson dismissing criticism as “laughable.” Airlink defended the event, explaining that the performance was meticulously planned, coordinated with aviation authorities, and involved rigorous simulation training and safety protocols.

The airline confirmed that highly experienced crews operated both aircraft, adhering strictly to approved safety altitudes and speeds.