SPORTS · VERIFIED DEVELOPMENT
South African Airline Defends Low-Level Flyby Before Rugby Union Clash
WHY IT MATTERS
The stunt raises concerns about safety risks, particularly for spectators and players below, and may prompt further discussion on the balance between entertainment and safety protocols in sports events.
What happened
A dramatic pre-game stunt involving two passenger jets flying low over a stadium in South Africa sparked debate over safety risks. The flyby by Airlink's Embraer jets occurred before the second rugby union Test between South Africa and New Zealand in Cape Town.
The jets flew as low as 41-46 feet above the stadium roof, with the crowd and top-ranked rugby teams below. The stunt included a cloud of pink dust shot up from the stadium roof.
Airlink insists the flyby was conducted according to regulations.
PRIMARY SOURCES
South African airline defends dramatic low-level flyby before rugby union clash
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