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Airlink cancels stadium flypast amid aviation safety probe
The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) has launched an investigation into a low-altitude flypast performed by Airlink Embraer 190 jets at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium. The maneuver, which took place during a rugby match between the Springboks and the All Blacks, drew international scrutiny after footage showed the aircraft passing as low as 12 to 15 meters above the stadium roof.
In response to the safety concerns and the ongoing regulatory review, Airlink has withdrawn its application for a third planned flypast at Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium. While the airline cited unfavorable weather forecasts as the official reason for the cancellation, the decision follows the SACAA’s decision to initiate compliance verifications and analyze flight data recorder downloads from the aircraft.
Airlink has defended the operation, stating it was meticulously planned, rehearsed in a simulator, and conducted by senior captains within approved limits. The SACAA intends to issue a full report with recommendations once the assessment of the flight data and additional information is complete.
Entities
Airlink · DHL Stadium · FNB Stadium · South African Civil Aviation Authority · Springboks · de Villiers Engelbrecht
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The regulator has obtained flight data recorder downloads from the two Embraer 190 jets. lesothotribune.co.ls · srnnews.com · www.sapeople.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Each aircraft involved in the Cape Town flyover had three senior captains on board. srnnews.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Airlink has withdrawn its application for a planned flypast at Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium. lesothotribune.co.ls · srnnews.com · www.sapeople.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The SACAA is investigating the low-altitude flypast conducted by Airlink at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium. lesothotribune.co.ls · srnnews.com · www.sapeople.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] One jet flew approximately 12 to 14 metres above the roof of the DHL Stadium. lesothotribune.co.ls · www.sapeople.com