Airlink has defended a dramatic low flyover above a Cape Town rugby stadium, saying the manoeuvre stayed within approved safety limits. New flight data shows the aircraft passed just 41 feet above the ground during the display, according to Business Insider Africa.
The flyover took place before the Springboks-All Blacks clash in Cape Town, where two jets performed a coordinated pass over the stadium. The spectacle drew widespread attention, with footage of the moment shared widely online, but it also sparked alarm among some observers who saw the aircraft pass metres above the crowd.
Business Insider Africa reports that Airlink responded to the concerns by stating the flyover was conducted within the parameters that had been approved in advance. The airline did not dispute the 41-foot clearance figure but maintained that the operation was carried out safely and in line with regulations.
The incident has divided opinion among aviators, according to The Times. Some have praised the precision of the display, while others have questioned whether such a low pass over a packed venue was appropriate, even with prior approval. The Telegraph noted that the stunt caused alarm as the aircraft flew metres above the stadium.
Flightradar24 data confirmed the flight path and altitude of the aircraft involved, providing the technical details that have fuelled the debate. The tracking service recorded the flyover as part of its public flight data.
The question now is whether the display will prompt a review of clearance rules for future stadium flyovers in South Africa.
