New footage shows two Airlink Embraer aircraft coming within metres of the roof of Cape Town's DHL Stadium during a flyover before a rugby match, prompting criticism from social media users.
Close pass over 55,000-capacity venue
The Embraer E190 and Embraer E195 jets flew over the stadium on Saturday afternoon ahead of a game between South Africa and New Zealand. Airlink, an official partner of the Rugby's Greatest Rivals series, marked the occasion by flying the 98-seater aircraft over the open arena.
Footage taken from the roof and posted online showed the jets passing within what FlightRadar said was between 41 and 46 feet (12 and 14 metres) of the stadium. As the aircraft came in close, colourful streamers were released into the air, which the planes cut through.
Manoeuvre draws backlash
During one part of the manoeuvre, as the jets moved off the other side of the stadium, one aircraft pitched upwards, pulling its tail closer to the surface. The display was welcomed by Airlink, which afterwards praised what it called "spectacular scenes".
Social media users criticised the display as "absolutely unnecessary and dangerous". One Reddit user said: "Next level reckless. That is way too small of an envelope for error." Another questioned: "Is this like impressively stupid or calculated?"
Airline defends safety record
Following the backlash, Airlink said in a statement that it "notes the concerns" but described the flyby as "safe" and carefully planned. A spokesperson said: "Airlink notes the concerns expressed in various social media and online forums regarding yesterday’s formation flyby over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium."
The statement added: "The flight demanded careful planning and rehearsal, as it required navigating at low altitude, at around 150 knots. The South African Civil Aviation Authority and Air Traffic Navigation Services provided valuable guidance, approval and support to ensure a safe flyby."
The spokesperson said the two aircraft were flown by highly-experienced crew, each comprising three senior captains in the roles of commander, co-pilot and safety/technical officer. Flight data recorded by both aircraft confirmed the flights were performed within the SACAA's approved and rehearsed safety altitude and speed limits for the flypast.
