A light aircraft crashed into Beijing’s tallest building, killing the pilot and injuring 13 people on the ground, authorities said on Saturday. The rare accident occurred in the tightly controlled airspace above the Chinese capital. Officials have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
The Chaoyang district government said the single-engine, two-seat light sport aircraft struck the high-rise building near Beijing’s East Third Ring Road at about 5:55 p.m. on Friday. The pilot was the only person aboard the aircraft and died in the crash. Authorities said all 13 injured people were receiving medical treatment.
The aircraft collided with the 528-metre CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun, in Beijing’s central business district. Damage to the building was limited to the loss of two large glass panels, leaving a hole that was temporarily sealed. The skyscraper stands near key government offices and major tourist attractions.
Flight tracking data indicated the aircraft took off from Beijing’s northeastern suburbs before flying toward the city centre. The signal ended shortly before the reported crash. The aircraft was identified as an Aurora SA60L light sport aircraft manufactured by China’s Sunward.
Authorities have not confirmed the cause of the accident or the pilot’s affiliation with the aircraft’s reported operator. The aviation company linked to the aircraft declined to confirm ownership when contacted. Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash.