By Mapaballo Borotho

- The planned Airlink flyover at FNB Stadium on Saturday has been cancelled after the airline withdrew its application for approval.
- The decision comes as the South African Civil Aviation Authority investigates a controversial low-altitude flyover over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium last weekend.
- Airlink says unfavourable weather conditions also contributed to the cancellation.
There will be no Airlink flyover at FNB Stadium this weekend after the airline withdrew its application for approval.
The flyover had been planned ahead of Saturday’s highly anticipated Springboks versus All Blacks Test in Soweto.
The cancellation comes as the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) investigates Airlink’s controversial low-altitude flyover over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium last weekend.
The flyover thrilled approximately 56,000 spectators, but videos showing the aircraft flying close to the stadium roof sparked concerns among aviation enthusiasts and members of the public over safety.
“SACAA was notified by the operator on Wednesday, 1 September 2026, that it is withdrawing its application for approval for a third flypast that was planned for this coming weekend,” the regulator said in a statement.
“The SACAA, as the safety net of the South African skies, gives the public the assurance that aviation safety and security compliance will always remain paramount and is not negotiable.”
Airlink withdrew its application on Wednesday, 2 September, citing unfavourable weather conditions.
The airline had planned to conduct a third flyover ahead of Saturday’s Test at FNB Stadium.
Meanwhile, the South African Weather Service has urged residents to brace for cold and wet conditions over the weekend, with an 85% chance of rain expected in Gauteng on Friday, continuing into the weekend.
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