Two Passenger Planes Pass Close to DHL Stadium Roof—‘About 12 m’ Distance and Airlink Approval Statement Confirmed

Before the South Africa–New Zealand rugby test match on August 29, 2026, two Airlink aircraft flew over Cape Town’s DHL Stadium. The reported distance of about 12 m refers to the distance between the stadium roof and the aircraft, based on flight-tracking data; it has not been confirmed as an official minimum altitude. Airlink said the flyby was planned and rehearsed in advance and conducted with the guidance and approval of relevant authorities.

Key fact: The location was Cape Town’s DHL Stadium

Before the South Africa–New Zealand rugby test match at DHL Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa, on August 29, 2026, two Airlink aircraft flew over the stadium.

Related reports put the distance between the aircraft and the stadium roof at about 12 m. However, this figure was based on media reports and flight-tracking data and has not been confirmed as an official minimum altitude issued by aviation authorities.

‘About 12 m’ should be understood as a distance figure based on media reports and flight-tracking data, not as an official minimum altitude.

Airlink’s account of the flyby

Airlink said the flyby had undergone careful planning and rehearsal. It also said the operation received guidance, approval, and support from the South African Civil Aviation Authority and air traffic control authorities, and was conducted within approved safety altitudes and speed limits.

According to Airlink, the two aircraft were flown by experienced crews, and each aircraft carried three senior captains covering command, co-pilot, safety, and technical roles.

Therefore, based on the material currently available, the exact flight altitude and original flight data recorder records cannot be confirmed. It would also go beyond the verified facts to conclude that the aircraft operation violated regulations or posed a collision risk.

The scene connected to the rugby match

South Africa defeated New Zealand 33–26 in the second test held immediately before the passenger aircraft flyby. The match took place at DHL Stadium in Cape Town, and the result has been confirmed in official materials from both South African Rugby and New Zealand Rugby.

The series is part of the 2026 South Africa–New Zealand tour, held under the name “Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry.” It marked the New Zealand national team’s first major South African tour in 30 years, and Airlink was announced as the official domestic airline responsible for transporting both national teams and officials within South Africa.

Points to verify

Flyby location: DHL Stadium in Cape Town, South Africa
Operator: Two Airlink aircraft
Distance figure: Reported as about 12 m between the stadium roof and the aircraft, but not an official minimum altitude
Airlink’s position: The flyby was planned and rehearsed in advance, with guidance, approval, and support from relevant authorities
Match result: South Africa 33–26 New Zealand