Before a rugby match between the national teams of South Africa and New Zealand in Cape Town, two passenger planes of the airline Airlink flew over the DHL stadium at an altitude of only 12–14 meters above the roof.
Video of the flyover quickly spread on social media and sparked heated discussions. Spectators in the stands, numbering about 55–56 thousand, saw Embraer E190 and E195 aircraft with custom livery in team colors race over the arena to the accompaniment of pyrotechnics.
Flightradar24 data showed that the minimum altitude above the roof was approximately 12,5–14 meters. The planes flew at a speed of about 120–150 knots, and one of them passed through a cloud of smoke from fireworks.
Airlink, the official partner of the match series, stated that the flight was pre-approved with the South African Civil Aviation Authority and navigation services. On board each airliner were three senior captains — in the roles of commander, co-pilot, and safety officer. There were no passengers on board.
Such low flyovers are a long-standing tradition in South African rugby. Back in the 1995 World Cup final, a Boeing 747 from South African Airways flew over the stadium.
Reaction online was divided: some called the maneuver a thrilling spectacle, others too risky. The airline emphasized that all flight parameters were rehearsed and within approved limits.
The match ended with a home victory with a score of 33:26. And the question of how close passenger airliners can be allowed to a crowd of fans remains open for discussion.
