Following the controversy surrounding Airlink's ultra-low flyover in Cape Town, the South African Rugby Union has confirmed another pre-match aircraft display for the third Test in Johannesburg. Picture: Timothy Bernard Independent Newspapers
Image: Timothy Bernard Independent Newspapers
The South African Rugby Union (Saru) has confirmed that another flyover will take place ahead of the third Test between South Africa and New Zealand at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on Saturday.
The confirmation follows the viral buzz surrounding Airlink’s flyover for the second Test in Cape Town, where two jets flew extraordinarily close to the roof of the DHL Stadium. Subsequent reports revealed that the second aircraft passed a mere 15 meters above the structure.
As videos swept across social media, the manoeuvre drew widespread criticism for being unnecessarily risky. However, Airlink defended the flight path sharing its black box data, insisting that the routine strictly adhered to "approved and rehearsed safety altitude and speed limits for the flypast."
The airline added: "The two aircraft were flown by highly experienced crew, with each comprised of three senior captains operating in the roles of commander, co-pilot and safety/technical officer."
South Africa's Sports Minister, Gayton McKenzie, also praised the display, posting on X: "It's a well known fact that we have the best pilots in the world, that was spectacular."
While critics argue the high-risk stunt is an accident waiting to happen, low-altitude flyovers remain a cherished South African rugby tradition—most famously rooted in the iconic 1995 Rugby World Cup final between the Springboks and All Blacks.
The four-match series is currently deadlocked at 1-1 with two clashes remaining, culminating in a historic final fixture on September 12 in Baltimore, USA.
On Monday, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus named his team for the third Test, making four changes and one positional switch to his starting team for the clash.
Related Topics:
Follow the story
