Airlink faces possible sanction over stadium stunt
Airlink could face regulatory action, including possible grounding, following its controversial low-altitude flyover of Cape Town on 29 August 2026.
The SA Civil Aviation Authority (Sacaa) is reviewing the airline's conduct during the flypast ahead of the Springboks' rugby match against the All Blacks.
According to MyBroadband, flight-tracking data suggested one aircraft flew approximately 12.5 to 14 metres above the stadium.
A report on the Newsroom site notes that the manoeuvre attracted worldwide attention and raised concerns about aviation safety.
Sacaa Commissioner Poppy Khoza yesterday confirmed that the regulator had completed its compliance verification and provided Airlink with a report.
The airline initially received 15 days to respond but requested another 15 days. Its response is now due tomorrow.
Khoza warned that the authority would take appropriate action if wrongdoing was established.
She noted that that airlines had previously been grounded following regulatory violations.
On 2 September, Sacaa confirmed that Airlink had received approval for the Cape Town flypast.
The regulator said the airline had submitted the required documentation and conducted simulator rehearsals and safety briefings.
Airlink also voluntarily provided digital flight recordings to Sacaa for independent verification.
Article disclaimer: While we have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this article, it is not intended to provide final legal advice as facts and situations will differ from case to case, and therefore specific legal advice should be sought with a lawyer.
