Airlink has defended a double flypast over a rugby match in Cape Town after the stunt sparked a debate over aviation safety.
The South African airline carried out the flights on Saturday. The aircraft flew over DHL Stadium before the Springboks faced the All Blacks.
Airlink said highly experienced crews operated both aircraft. Each crew included three senior captains.
The airline also said the manoeuvres required “careful planning and rehearsal.” It added that the flights followed the local aviation authority’s “approved and rehearsed safety altitude and speed limits.”
The flypast quickly drew attention online. Some people criticised the low flights, while others praised the spectacle.
Flight-tracking website Flightradar24 reported that one of the two jets passed less than 50 feet, or 15 metres, above the top of DHL Stadium.
The flypast also revived memories of South Africa’s rugby history. The country has a tradition of passenger jets flying over major sports events.
A similar display took place during the 1995 Rugby World Cup final in Johannesburg. Then-President Nelson Mandela attended that historic match.
Airlink operates about 70 Embraer passenger jets. Qatar Airways backs the South African airline.
The latest flypast came shortly before the Springboks took on the All Blacks. South Africa, the current world champions, won the match 33-26.
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