FlySafair took to the skies above DP World Wanderers Stadium yesterday with a spectacular stadium flyover in celebration of the iconic Pink Day T20 International between the Proteas and the West Indies, South Africa’s most cherished sporting movement for breast cancer awareness.
As proud sponsors of the Proteas, FlySafair performed two precisely timed flypasts featuring its distinctive Proteas branded livery, uniting cricket fans in a moment of national pride and purpose.
Pink Day has become one of South Africa’s most unifying sporting traditions, transforming the Wanderers into a vibrant sea of pink as fans, families, survivors, players and corporates stand together in the fight against breast cancer. The event raises critical support for the Breast Care Unit at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, which assists more than 350 newly diagnosed patients annually and serves as a training hub for medical professionals across the continent.
“As the trusted domestic carrier for the Springboks and both the men’s and women’s Proteas cricket teams, FlySafair is a proud supporter of South African sport. But Pink Day represents something even greater than the game, it’s about unity, hope and supporting families affected by breast cancer. Our flyover is a symbol of solidarity with Cricket South Africa and with every South African touched by this disease,” said Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafair.
CSA Public Affairs Executive, Refentse Shinners, said:
“Cricket South Africa appreciates the continued partnership with FlySafair, our official airline partner, in extending its support beyond the field of play by delivering a memorable Pink Day experience for fans.”
“Our partnership with FlySafair reflects a commitment to using the power of cricket to unite South Africans and support causes that truly matter.”
“The flyover was a deeply symbolic moment that captured the spirit of unity, remembrance and hope that defines this iconic occasion. Cricket South Africa values FlySafair’s contribution in meaningfully enhancing one of the most important fixtures on our calendar, with a first-ever flyover at DP World Wanderers Stadium.”
“FlySafair continues to demonstrate its support for the Proteas and for initiatives that carry broader social relevance, reinforcing cricket’s ability to drive awareness and deliver positive impact on breast cancer.”
Perfectly Timed Flypasts
The FlySafair aircraft performed two low-level display passes before and during the match proceedings. This match also served as the Proteas’ official sendoff ahead of the T20 World Cup.
Fan Activations to Bring Pink Day to Life
In addition to the aerial display, FlySafair elevated fan engagement with stadium activations throughout the evening:
- Catch the first six, selected spectators stood a chance to win two domestic return tickets on FlySafair
- Dress in pink, fans spotted on the fan cam could win two domestic return tickets on FlySafair
Precision Planning Behind the Flyover
While the flypast lasted only seconds for spectators, it represented months of meticulous planning and coordination.
Preparations began last year and included route design, flight path modelling using tools such as Google Earth, and reconnaissance flights in light aircraft before final simulator validation. All plans were submitted to the South African Civil Aviation Authority for approval.
Three specially trained display captains were onboard for the operation, with no passengers permitted, supported by FlySafair’s safety, compliance, operations and technical teams. On the ground, coordination teams situated in the stadium relayed real time timing cues via handheld radios to ensure the aircraft arrived precisely at its designated overhead time.
“The margins for error are extremely tight when flying low level over a stadium. Timing is one of the most fundamental aspects, and we remain flexible right up until the final minutes,” explained Captain Murray Shaw, FlySafair display pilot. “It’s intensely focused, exhilarating work. The moment passes quickly, but it’s a profound privilege every time.”
The aircraft was specially prepared for the occasion, with FlySafair’s technical team ensuring it was in peak condition and looking immaculate for the showcase.
This marked FlySafair’s first-ever cricket stadium flyover. While the airline has become known for its spectacular displays at Springboks rugby matches since 2017, yesterday’s Pink Day event represented the inaugural aerial showcase for the Proteas partnership, which began in November 2024.
A Display of Precision and Purpose
Celebrated globally as the world champions of on time performance, FlySafair extends that same precision and reliability to extraordinary operations such as stadium flyovers.
“This flyover symbolises our ongoing commitment to uniting people with who and what they love, whether that’s connecting families through travel, supporting national sport, or rallying behind causes that matter. Pink Day highlights the power of collective action, and we are honoured to play a part,” added Gordon.