Dramatic low flyby by passenger jets over South African stadium sparks safety debate

Two Embraer passenger jets flew extremely low over Cape Town Stadium in South Africa on Saturday, prompting cheers from an estimated crowd of about 56,000 and immediate safety debate. Flight tracking estimates the lead aircraft passed roughly 41 to 46 feet (12 to 14 meters) above the roof before a second jet followed through pink dust from the pregame show. Airlink said the formation flyby ahead of the South Africa vs. New Zealand rugby match was carefully planned and rehearsed at about 150 knots (278 kph) and that no passengers were onboard. Airlink cited guidance and approvals from the South African Civil Aviation Authority and Air Traffic Navigation Services. Experts questioned the margin for error.