Two Airlink passenger jets perform an ultra-low flyover over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium shortly before kick-off for the South Africa vs New Zealand rugby Test, prompting widespread alarm among spectators after videos circulated online. Reports and footage show the aircraft appearing to pass very close to the stadium roof.
Both outlets describe the incident as a planned pre-match spectacle intended to build atmosphere for one of rugby’s biggest rivalries. Flight-tracking information cited in coverage suggests the planes clear the roof by only a small margin, and one aircraft appears to change height slightly as it approaches. One jet also flies through smoke generated by pre-match pyrotechnics, adding to the confusing visuals for fans.
Despite the dramatic images, the flyover is reported to complete without an accident, and the aircraft continue safely on their routes. The event still triggers debate about the safety of operating passenger aircraft at such low altitudes over a packed stadium. Separately, the rugby match proceeds later that day, with South Africa beating New Zealand 33–26 to level the series.
