Probe launched: No flyover for Boks v All Blacks in Soweto
NEWS: There will be no reason to look at the sky over FNB Stadium ahead of Saturday’s kick-off between the Springboks and the All Blacks.
On Wednesday, it was revealed that Airlink is “withdrawing its application for approval for a third flypast that was planned for this coming weekend”.
The decision was made as the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) investigates the dramatic flyover that happend over DHL Stadium last weekend.
The flyover in Cape Town, featuring two Embraer E-Jets, made headlines around the world and sparked a safety debate.
Planning. Precision. Performance. ✈️✈️
Spectacular scenes of Airlink’s double Embraer flyover at the DHL Stadium.
Airlink is Proud Official Sponsor of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry, presented by Castle Double Malt 🏉#Airlink #FlyAirlink #FlyTheLink #Skybucks #RugbysGreatestRivalry pic.twitter.com/3tPNepftLS
— Airlink (@Fly_Airlink) August 29, 2026
On Wednesday, a SACAA statement said: “Subsequent to the flypast, the SACAA began ongoing compliance verifications and can confirm the following information to date:
“Airlink submitted three applications for flypasts related to the rugby matches of which the flypast under discussion is the second of the three applications. The applications were submitted in line with the regulatory provisions governing non-passenger or cargocarrying flights conducted in terms of the provisions of Part 91.06.32. Following the SACAA approval, the first flypast took place on 22 August 2026 in Johannesburg, and the second one took place on 29 August 2026.
“In relation to the second flypast, the operator submitted the application with supporting documentation applicable to such operations. The necessary processes including the practice flight in a simulator in preparation for the Saturday flight and a safety briefing was conducted ahead of the operation as required by the regulations. This was approved by the Regulator, in line with the requirements for Special Air Events.”
The statement added: “Following various discussions in the media relating to the events of the past weekend, the SACAA initiated compliance verifications, engaged the operator, obtained the Flight Data Recording downloads as well as other additional requirements.
“The Regulator has begun its analysis process and has requested additional information from the operator to reach an informed position.
“A full report with recommendations will be shared with the operator once the assessment has been completed by the SACAA.
“Further to this, the Regulator was notified by the operator on Wednesday, 2 September 2026, that it is withdrawing its application for approval for a third flypast that was planned for this coming weekend.”
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