The South African Civil Aviation Authority has launched an investigation into the controversial low-altitude flyby performed by Airlink before last weekend’s Springboks versus All Blacks rugby match in Cape Town.
The domestic carrier’s aircraft roared over DHL Cape Town Stadium just moments before kick-off on 29 August, leaving spectators in awe but sparking serious questions about safety protocols.
Investigation under way
Following the Saturday flight, SACAA initiated compliance checks after widespread public and media discussion about the ultra-low pass. The regulator has already retrieved flight data recordings from the aircraft and requested additional information from Airlink to analyse the operation thoroughly.
The move prompted Airlink to withdraw its application for a third planned flyby, which was scheduled for this coming weekend. The airline notified SACAA of its decision on 1 September.
The Cape Town display was the second of three planned events. The first took place successfully over Johannesburg on 22 August.
Regulatory approval process
SACAA confirmed that Airlink had submitted its applications under Part 91.06.32 of aviation regulations, which governs flights not carrying passengers or cargo. The airline completed all mandatory preparatory requirements, including submitting supporting documents, conducting simulator practice runs, and holding safety briefings before the live event.
The regulator initially approved the flight in line with Special Air Events regulations.
SACAA said the investigation is essential to ensure compliance and strengthen national aviation safety standards. Once the data assessment is complete, it will provide Airlink with a detailed report and safety recommendations.
World-class safety record at stake
South Africa currently ranks first in Africa and seventh globally for aviation safety, according to the UN’s International Civil Aviation Organisation. The country has maintained a 0% fatal accident record in commercial airline operations for more than 40 years.
“Interrogating the weekend’s events with clear minds and objective data is vital to upholding this record and determining if any safety standards were compromised,” SACAA stated.
Razor-thin margins revealed
Earlier reporting by Novanews revealed just how close the aircraft came to the stadium structure. Tracking data analysed by Flightradar24 showed the lead aircraft cleared the stadium roof by less than 50 feet.
After accounting for local air pressure conditions, the actual structural clearance was calculated at between 41 and 46 feet – a margin that left little room for error.
Public reaction has been sharply divided. Many rugby supporters celebrated the display as thrilling entertainment, while others voiced serious concerns about manoeuvring large commercial jets so close to a packed stadium in a busy urban area.
ALSO READ: Flight data suggests Cape Town flyover was within limits
Airline defends operation
Airlink has strongly defended the flypast, insisting it was “heavily regulated” from start to finish. The carrier said rehearsals ensured the aircraft could safely navigate the low altitude at roughly 150 knots.
The airline credited SACAA and Air Traffic Navigation Services with providing operational support and formal approval.
To reduce risk, each aircraft carried three senior captains – serving as commander, co-pilot, and safety officer. Airlink said recorded flight data proves the operation stayed within SACAA’s approved safety limits.
ALSO READ: Ultra-low flypast over stadium ‘heavily regulated’, says Airlink
