South African airline Airlink has canceled a planned aerial stunt for this weekend, according to the nation's aviation regulator. The decision follows an investigation launched into a daring flyby conducted last Saturday over a crowded stadium during a rugby match.
The Civil Aviation Authority of South Africa (SACAA) stated that while it had initially approved the applications and safety measures for the flybys, it is now conducting a further investigation following public discussion of the event. Airlink has not officially commented on the reported cancellation of the flyby that was scheduled to take place over a stadium in Soweto.
Last Saturday's aerial display, which occurred before a rugby match between South Africa and New Zealand in Cape Town, involved two planes flying in close formation at a low altitude over the DHL Stadium. Footage of the stunt, which included colored flare smoke, was widely shared online. Flight tracking data analysis indicated that the lead aircraft passed less than 50 feet above the stadium's roof.
The maneuver drew mixed reactions, with some observers deeming the stunt reckless and others commending the pilots' precision. The SACAA is also investigating the aerial display from last Saturday.