Fatal Crash in Chaoyang District
Chinese authorities reported on Saturday that a small plane crashed into a high-rise building in Beijing on Friday, resulting in the death of the pilot and injuries to 13 other individuals. The incident occurred in the Chaoyang district, a bustling business area, at 5:55 p.m. local time.
Details of the Incident
The two-seat light sport aircraft collided with a building, which was later identified by Flightradar24 as the CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun. This skyscraper stands at over 1,700 feet (528 meters) and is the tallest building in Beijing. The 108-story tower, shaped like an ancient Chinese wine vessel, is located just east of a major ring road in a cluster of skyscrapers.
Official Statement and Investigation
The authorities of Chaoyang district issued a short statement on WeChat, which did not specify the building or the pilot's identity. The statement confirmed that the crash caused casualties and that an investigation is underway. The cause of the crash remains unknown, and it occurred in a city with strict airspace controls, including a recent ban on drones.
