Airlink flew two passenger jets [1] in a low-altitude aerial stunt over the DHL Stadium in Cape Town this past Saturday.
The maneuver took place during a high-profile rugby test match between the Springboks and the All Blacks. The event drew significant attention due to the use of commercial passenger aircraft for a precision stunt over a crowded public venue.
According to reports, the two aircraft flew in close formation at an altitude of just over 50 feet [2]. The flyover occurred as the stadium was packed with spectators preparing for the match.
Airlink said the maneuver was carefully planned and rehearsed. The airline said the stunt was approved by the Civil Aviation Authority to generate excitement ahead of the rugby match [3].
While the airline defended the safety of the operation, the use of passenger jets for such low-altitude maneuvers is uncommon. The flight path took the aircraft directly over the DHL Stadium, creating a dramatic visual for the crowd [4].
Airlink is recognized as a premier airline in South Africa [5]. The company said all regulatory requirements were met before the aircraft took to the skies over Cape Town.
“Two passenger jets flew in close formation at an altitude of just over 50 feet.”
The use of commercial passenger jets for low-altitude stunts over densely populated areas represents a rare intersection of commercial aviation and public spectacle. While Airlink maintains the flight was regulator-approved, such maneuvers typically invite scrutiny regarding safety margins and the precedent set for civilian aircraft operations in urban environments.
