Airlink has cancelled its planned formation flyby at FNB Stadium ahead of the Springboks-All Blacks Test, citing unfavourable weather conditions and safety concerns.
The decision comes as the South African Civil Aviation Authority continues examining the airline’s 29 August flyby over DHL Stadium in Cape Town.
Airlink CEO de Villiers Engelbrecht said the airline appreciated the public excitement around the Cape Town display but stressed that it had never intended to overshadow the rugby.
“We never intended to become the news or upstage Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry,” he said.
FNB flyby withdrawn over weather
Airlink confirmed it had withdrawn its application for the FNB Stadium flyby after forecasts pointed to conditions it considered unsuitable for a safe formation flight.
Engelbrecht said safety had to come first and apologised to supporters who had hoped to see another aerial display.
According to the SACAA, Airlink communicated its withdrawal on 1 September.
The airline had submitted three flyby applications linked to the rugby matches. The first took place in Johannesburg on 22 August, followed by the Cape Town operation on 29 August.
SACAA reviews Cape Town operation
The regulator said the DHL Stadium flyby had been approved after required processes were completed, including a simulator practice flight and safety briefing.
However, the operation attracted significant public and media attention over how low the aircraft appeared to fly.
The SACAA has since requested additional information from Airlink and is analysing flight data and other material.
It said a full report and recommendations would be issued once the assessment is complete.
Airlink hands over flight data
Airlink said safety was its first consideration throughout the planning and execution of the Cape Town flight.
The airline voluntarily provided digital flight data recordings to assist the SACAA with its compliance review.
According to Airlink, the recorders capture more than 1,000 parameters, providing detailed information about the aircraft’s performance during the operation.
The airline said the amount and complexity of the information meant conclusions from the regulator should not be expected immediately.
Airlink has committed to continuing its cooperation with the SACAA as the review proceeds.