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

Two Airlink Embraer jets flew just 41 to 46 feet (12 to 14 meters) over Cape Town Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa, ahead of a rugby match between South Africa and New Zealand on Saturday. With a crowd estimated at about 56,000, the flyby drew cheers but also triggered a safety debate. Flightradar24 data placed the lead aircraft extremely low, while the second jet passed through pink dust released from the roof. Airlink said the stunt was carefully planned, rehearsed, and conducted without passengers at about 150 knots, with guidance and approvals from the South African Civil Aviation Authority and air traffic services.