SACAA to probe Airlink’s flypast, third application withdrawn
A full report and recommendations will be shared with the operator once the assessment is complete.
The South African Civil Aviation Authority has announced the withdrawal of Airlink's application for a risky low-altitude flyover near DHL Stadium in Soweto. The approval for the flyover, which took place on August 29th, 2026 during a Springboks vs All Blacks Test match, was granted under special provisions for air events. However, the regulator has launched compliance verifications to ensure pilots adhered to the approved flight plan.
If the flight data recorder analysis reveals the pilots descended below the approved path limits, they would be in breach of their legal authorization. Aviation safety expert Guy Leitch strongly criticized the altitude, estimating the aircraft was 40-50 feet above the stadium roof, far below the recommended minimum height of 400-500 feet.
The regulator has withdrawn approval for a third planned flyover, recognizing that the safety margin was too narrow and a minor, unpredictable variable could have resulted in catastrophic consequences.
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