Southern Africa’s premier airline, Airlink has assured “the public that its formation flyover over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium ahead of the Springboks-All Blacks rugby match was conducted safely”, in a statement shared on the South African Government News Agency.
Airlink has defended the flyover over DHL Stadium after footage of the manoeuvre went viral on social media causing public concern.
“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,” Airlink noted.
According to the Statement, “the airline said the two aircraft were flown by highly experienced crews, with each aircraft staffed by three senior captains serving as commander, co-pilot and safety or technical officer.”
Airlink added that the “flight data recorded by both aircraft confirmed the flypast was performed within the safety altitude and speed limits approved and rehearsed with the South African Civil Aviation Authority.” The airline further highlighted that the flypast was about Planning, Precision and Performance.
