Low jet flyover of Cape Town stadium sparks South Africa safety probe

South African aviation authorities are investigating a low-altitude flyover performed by two Airlink passenger jets before a rugby match at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium, following concerns raised by spectators. The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has obtained flight data recordings and requested additional information from Airlink as part of its assessment.

The incident, which drew cheers from an estimated crowd of about 56,000, was planned and rehearsed, with the airline emphasizing that safety was their top priority. However, the low-altitude flyover sparked debate over potential safety risks, with some expressing concerns about the impact on the crowd's experience. Airlink CEO de Villiers Engelbrecht acknowledged the enthusiasm generated by the spectacle while also recognizing the "valid questions and concerns" that followed. The SACAA will examine flight data to determine if any safety concerns warrant a review.

Brief written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.