South African airline defends dramatic low-level flyby before rugby union clash

A pre-game stunt over Cape Town Stadium sparked both cheers and safety concerns after two Embraer jets flew dramatically low ahead of the second Rugby Championship Test between South Africa and New Zealand on Saturday. The estimated crowd was around 56,000. Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 suggested the lead jet passed about 41 to 46 feet (12 to 14 metres) above the roof, with a second jet flying very close behind and punching through a cloud of pink dust. Airlink, which operated the flights and is a rugby sponsor, defended the maneuver as compliant with safety regulations, citing careful planning, rehearsals, and guidance from the South African Civil Aviation Authority and air traffic services. Experts questioned whether the margin for error was too small for passenger jets.