SACAA Investigates Viral Springboks Flypast After Safety Complaints

Images may be subject to copyright

SACAA probes Springboks vs All Blacks flypast after Cape Town stunt goes viral


The South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) is investigating Airlink's low flypast over DHL Stadium during last weekend's Springboks vs All Blacks clash after the video went viral and raised safety concerns.

The formation flight over Cape Town Stadium on 29 August 2026 had fans cheering inside the stadium - but worried viewers on social media questioned how low the planes flew over a packed crowd.

SACAA confirmed on Wednesday it has launched a formal probe.

“Following various media discussions relating to the events of the past weekend, the SACAA initiated compliance verifications, engaged the operator, obtained the flight data recording downloads, and requested additional information,” the Regulator said.

What happened?

Airlink submitted three applications for Springbok flypasts under Part 91.06.32 - the rule for non-passenger display flights.

- 1st flypast: 22 August 2026 - Johannesburg - APPROVED and flown
- 2nd flypast: 29 August 2026 - Cape Town DHL Stadium - APPROVED and flown - *NOW UNDER INVESTIGATION*
- 3rd flypast: Planned for this weekend - WITHDRAWN by Airlink on Tuesday

SACAA says it is now analysing flight data recordings and has asked for more info before making a final finding. A full report with recommendations will be shared with Airlink.

SACAA defends safety record

The Regulator, which calls itself the safety net of SA skies, said safety is non-negotiable.

“South Africa has one of the most sought-after aviation talents in the world, and as a country we remain proud of our 0% record in fatal accidents in the commercial airline operations space for over four decades,” SACAA said.

“This is a record we intend to uphold well into the future. It is therefore critical that we interrogate this past weekend's events with clear minds and data at our disposal.”

South Africa is ranked 7th globally and 1st in Africa for aviation safety by ICAO - the UN aviation body.

The investigation comes just days before the Springboks' next home fixture. No decision has been made yet on whether future rugby flypasts will be banned.

Source: http://SAnews.gov.za / SACAA