Light Aircraft Crashes Into 108-Story Beijing Skyscraper, Leaving 1 Dead and 13 Injured

Chinese authorities have announced that one person was killed and 13 others were injured after a light aircraft crashed into a 108-story skyscraper in Beijing.
The authorities released an official statement only a day after the incident, which is considered highly unusual given that it occurred in the heart of Beijing, where airspace is strictly controlled.
According to Reuters, AFP, and AP, the Chaoyang District authorities in Beijing stated on social media today (June 27) that "a single-engine, two-seater light sport aircraft (LSA) flying near the East Third Ring Road collided with a high-rise building at approximately 5:55 p.m. yesterday." They added, "There was only one pilot on board, and the pilot has died."
The statement continued, "13 people at the scene were injured, and we are currently focusing all efforts on treating the wounded. The relevant authorities are conducting further investigations into the situation."
The authorities did not provide specific details regarding the cause or circumstances of the accident.
Before the official announcement was made, information regarding the incident did not spread widely on Chinese social media.
Some have speculated that there may have been censorship by the authorities.
The building sustained damage, including two large glass panels on the exterior wall that were knocked out, and that section is currently covered.
Videos circulated on overseas social media platforms such as X immediately after the accident yesterday showed debris falling from the upper floors of the CITIC Tower—the building involved in the crash—to the ground, as well as a taxi on the street with its rear window shattered.
At the time, the surrounding area was cordoned off, and evacuations were carried out.
A photo also spread online showing the tail section of the aircraft, with the letters "B-12" visible, lying upside down on the ground after having separated from the plane.
The CITIC Tower is a 108-story building located in Beijing's central business district and is the tallest building in the city.
The building is located just about 6 kilometers away from the Forbidden City, which attracts thousands of tourists every day.
CNN reported that, according to the flight tracking website Flightradar24, the aircraft had deviated from its planned flight path.
The aircraft involved in the accident is known to be an "SA 60L," manufactured by the Chinese company Star-Air Aircraft.
The company claims that this model accounts for more than 70% of the light sport aircraft market in China and is also exported to Australia and the United States.
Reuters noted that this accident occurred while Beijing authorities have banned the unauthorized purchase, rental, or operation of drones since May, citing public safety concerns.
(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.