Airlink flypast over Cape Town stadium draws scrutiny after low-altitude pass

Two Airlink aircraft flew a low formation pass over DHL Stadium in Cape Town on 29 August 2026, ahead of a rugby test between South Africa and New Zealand. Airlink sponsored the match series.

Flight-tracking data analysed by Flightradar24 put the lead aircraft's lowest recorded ADS-B altitude at 50 feet on standard pressure settings. Correcting for local air pressure put its altitude above mean sea level at an estimated 205 to 210 feet. The stadium is about 164 feet high and sits near sea level, which suggests a clearance over the roof of roughly 41 to 46 feet.

The manoeuvre drew concern on social media and online forums. Airlink addressed the reaction in a statement issued on 30 August, saying the flight required extensive planning and rehearsal, since it involved flying at low altitude and at a speed of around 150 knots.

The airline said the flight was coordinated with South Africa's Civil Aviation Authority and air traffic control. The material available does not detail what approvals were specifically granted for the low-altitude pass, and it is not stated whether any formal safety review or investigation has been opened into the clearance margin recorded.

The aircraft involved were identified as Embraer jets. The specific type designator was not given in the available material.