South African airline behind daring stadium stunt cancels next flyby, regulator says
South African airline Airlink has canceled a planned flyby over a stadium in Soweto following a controversial low-altitude stunt at a previous rugby match. The aviation regulator is currently investigating the safety of the initial maneuver.
Why it matters
The incident raises questions about aviation safety regulations and the balance between public entertainment and operational risk.
Figure caption, Watch: Moment two planes fly less than 50 feet above stadium
The South African airline behind a daring aerial stunt last Saturday that saw two planes flying in close formation low over a packed stadium has pulled out of doing a similar operation this weekend, the country's aviation regulator, SACAA, has said.
Airlink's flying feat divided opinion with some labelling the startling manoeuvre reckless, while others praised the precision and expertise on display.
SACAA said that while it had approved the applications and safety measures for the flybys, it was now investigating further following "discussions in the media".
Airlink has not commented on the reported cancellation of Saturday's display that had been due to place over a stadium in Soweto.
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