Overview
- The planned formation flyover occurred on Saturday, August 29, 2026, when two Airlink Embraer regional jets circled Robben Island and passed over DHL Stadium just before kickoff.
- The aircraft were identified as registrations ZS‑YAE and ZS‑YDE and wore special green and black liveries representing the competing teams.
- Flightradar24 ADS‑B data recorded a lowest barometric reading of about 50 ft (standard pressure), which corrected to roughly 205–210 ft AMSL and implies about 41–46 ft (12.5–14 m) clearance above the stadium roof.
- Airlink says the flyover was planned, rehearsed and approved with guidance from the South African Civil Aviation Authority and Air Traffic Navigation Services, and no injuries or damage were reported.
- Video showing the trailing jet passing through pyrotechnic smoke has focused scrutiny on coordination with fireworks, the interpretation of ADS‑B barometric readings versus visual perspective, and whether display rules or waivers require further review.