Jets' low flypast over packed Cape Town stadium divides aviation fans

Monday, 31 August 2026 05:34

A low-level flypast over the roof of a packed stadium has divided opinion - with some calling it a dangerous stunt and others praising the skill of the pilots.

Footage of the planes over Cape Town's DHL Stadium before a rugby match on Saturday has gone viral.

Aviation app Flightradar 24 said it had analysed its data and found one aircraft was only 41 to 46ft (12.5 to 14m) above the roof.

Fireworks were let off as the Embraer jets passed over the venue, which was hosting a rugby match between South Africa and New Zealand.

A video from the stadium's roof, posted on X, reveals just how low the lead aircraft was.

The planes' operator, Airlink, said the manoeuvre was within approved safety limits and had been planned with help from South Africa's civil aviation authority and air traffic control.

"The two aircraft were flown by highly-experienced crew, with each comprised of three senior captains operating in the roles of commander, co-pilot and safety/technical office," it added.

However, some aviation fans believe the stunt was a step too far.

"Precision is one thing. Gambling hundreds of lives on the whim of a sudden wind change is something completely different," said Andrew Hill on the Flightradar24 website.

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Another user, Luigi, claimed there was "no margin for downdraft" or "turbulent air" over the roof.

But others called it a thrilling sight and said the flypast wasn't dangerous due to the planning involved and the experienced pilots.

"It was spectacular!" wrote a user on the Flightradar24 site. "Well done to the pilots and all involved in the planning and execution."

"Very impressive and calculated fly-past by Airlink. Congratulations to all involved. Well done. Proudly SA," posted Theo can Zijl.

Sky News

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