BEIJING, China – Chinese authorities said a light aircraft crashed into a high-rise building in Beijing on Friday evening, killing the pilot and injuring 13 people in an incident that has prompted an official investigation in the Chinese capital.
Authorities in Beijing’s Chaoyang district said the two-seat light sport aircraft struck the building near the East Third Ring Road at approximately 5:55 p.m. local time. Officials confirmed that the pilot, who was the only person on board, died in the crash, while 13 others were injured and are receiving medical treatment.
Authorities did not identify the pilot or specify which building was involved in the brief statement released through WeChat. They also did not clarify whether those injured were inside the building or were struck by falling debris.
Investigation Underway
The cause of the crash has not yet been determined. Officials said an investigation is underway, though no additional details have been released.
The incident occurred in a city known for strict airspace regulations, including recent restrictions on drone operations. Authorities have not indicated whether weather, mechanical issues or other factors may have contributed to the accident.
Flight Data Points to CITIC Tower
Flight-tracking service Flightradar24 reported that the aircraft collided with the CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun, one of Beijing’s most recognizable skyscrapers. The company also shared flight tracking data showing the aircraft, identified as a Sunward SA 60L Aurora, departing from an airport approximately 50 kilometers east of Beijing before its flight path ended near the East Third Ring Road.
Associated Press photographs taken on Saturday showed visible damage to one section of the tower’s glass exterior, where an apparent impact point had been covered.
The 108-story CITIC Tower rises more than 528 meters (1,700 feet), making it the tallest building in Beijing. The skyscraper is located in the capital’s central business district.
Social Media Posts Removed
Images and videos circulating on social media appeared to show aircraft debris near the building. While the material was consistent with the reported location, its authenticity could not be independently verified.
Posts discussing the crash were removed from Chinese social media platforms on Friday, while footage continued circulating on overseas platforms. A report published by financial news outlet Caixin later became inaccessible, reflecting the sensitivity surrounding such incidents in China.
Aircraft Operator and Manufacturer
According to Flightradar24, the aircraft was operated by Shuangyue General Aviation, which appears to refer to Dongshi Shuangyue (Beijing) General Aviation. The company’s website was inaccessible on Saturday. An online platform citing official data described the firm as providing services including private pilot training and aerial sightseeing flights.
The aircraft involved was identified as a Sunward SA 60L Aurora, manufactured by Starair Aircraft in China’s Hunan province. Information published on the manufacturer’s website states that the single-engine aircraft accounts for more than 70% of China’s light sport aircraft market and has also been exported to Australia and the United States.
Starair says the SA 60L Aurora has a maximum cruising speed of 220 kilometers (137 miles) per hour and a maximum takeoff weight of 600 kilograms (1,322 pounds).
Tags: China, Beijing, Aviation, Plane Crash, CITIC Tower, Chaoyang District, Flightradar24, Civil Aviation, Public Safety, Aircraft Investigation, Starair Aircraft, General Aviation
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