Airlink’s low DHL Stadium fly-past sparks mixed reaction from the online community
Image: Airlink
The Airlink fly-over during the Springboks' match against the All Blacks in Cape Town has left some on social media clutching their proverbial pearls, but for others, it was "just another Saturday".
The two-aircraft fly-by was staged as part of the build-up to the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Series over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium.
According to FlightRadar24's analysis, the planes passed less than 50 feet above the top of the stadium.
According to Wales Rugby, "Some fans were terrified"
Image: Facebook
Looking at international media's reporting; UK-based publication, Daily Mail featured a rather dramatic headline, "Moment two planes nearly HIT packed sports stadium during spectacular pre-game flyover", while Australia's 7News Sydney reported "Astonishing flyover at packed stadium makes waves: Not AI". Some on social media argued that it was dangerous.
"Shocking! The tail of the leading aircraft barely cleared the stadium roof," said Russell Labuschagne.
Arthur Nijmeijer said, "These aircraft are about 30 metres long. That being the case, that lower aircraft is about 10 metres above the roof, if not less. I do not care what anyone says about planning and experience and the best pilots; that is far far too close and no safety margin. Those pilots dodged a bullet there."
IOL readers commented that the pilots were well-trained.
"Give that pilot a Bells, he can fly," said Sonja Cronje.
"Next time the pilot must land it on the field," joked Stan Mda.
"And how many aviation accidents does South Africa have in comparison to other countries airlines, that's the real question. So guess who can actually fly," said Arthur de Lange.
"I would have loved to be in the stadium for the fly-over. It must have been such a thrill for the spectators as well as the pilots. Wonderful," shared Elizabeth Marais.
And of course, there were memes.
However, Airlink said the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and Air Traffic Navigation Services provided guidance, approval and support to ensure the fly-by was conducted safely.
The airline added that the two aircraft were operated by highly experienced crews, with each aircraft carrying three senior captains serving as commander, co-pilot and safety/technical officer.
Airlink said flight data recorded by both aircraft confirmed that the fly-by was conducted within the safety altitude and speed limits approved and rehearsed by the SACAA.
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