South African airline Airlink defends dramatic stadium flyover

{"heading_1":"Planning and Execution","paragraph_1":"Airlink notes the concerns expressed in various social media and online forums regarding the low-level flyby over Cape Town's DHL Stadium. The flight demanded careful planning and rehearsal, as it required navigating at low altitude at around 150 knots.","paragraph_2":"The South African Civil Aviation Authority and Air Traffic Navigation Services provided valuable guidance, approval, and support to ensure a safe flyby.","paragraph_3":"The airline also shared footage and images of the move in a post on X, writing: 'Planning. Precision. Performance.'","paragraph_4":"The stunt was praised by South Africa's Minister for Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, who called it 'spectacular.'","paragraph_5":"However, Scottish pilot Scott Bateman expressed concern, stating that the lead aircraft reportedly cleared the stadium roof by around 40–50 feet, leaving him 'aghast.'","paragraph_6":"He added that aviation did not 'become one of the safest forms of transport by defending everything that worked.'","paragraph_7":"The incident underscores the need for a delicate balance between showcasing aviation prowess and ensuring public safety, especially in densely populated areas."}