Johannesburg: Southern Africa's premier airline, Airlink, has assured the public that its formation flyover over Cape Town's DHL Stadium ahead of the Springboks-All Blacks rugby match was conducted safely. In a statement released on Sunday, the airline defended the flyover after footage of the manoeuvre went viral on social media, sparking public concern.
According to South African Government News Agency, Airlink addressed the concerns expressed in various social media and online forums regarding the formation flyby. The airline emphasized that the flight demanded careful planning and rehearsal, navigating at low altitude at around 150 knots. The South African Civil Aviation Authority and Air Traffic Navigation Services provided guidance, approval, and support to ensure a safe flyby.
The airline highlighted that the two aircraft were flown by highly experienced crews, with each aircraft staffed by three senior captains serving as commander, co-pilot, and safety or technical officer. Airlink also noted that flight data recorded by both aircraft confirmed the flypast was performed within the safety altitude and speed limits approved and rehearsed with the South African Civil Aviation Authority.
