A light aircraft reportedly crashed into Beijing’s tallest building on Friday evening, triggering a large-scale emergency response in the Chinese capital’s central business district.
According to flight-tracking data, the aircraft was identified as a Sunward SA 60L Aurora that departed from an airport located roughly 50km east of Beijing before heading towards the city centre. The aircraft’s journey came to an abrupt end shortly before 6pm local time.
The plane is believed to have struck the CITIC Tower, commonly referred to as China Zun, a landmark skyscraper that stands more than 528 metres tall and dominates Beijing’s skyline.
Flight Path Ends Near Business District
WATCH: Debris falls after small plane crashes into the CITIC Tower in Beijing pic.twitter.com/yJS8zm2TYR
— BNO News Live (@BNODesk) June 26, 2026
Data released by flight-tracking platform Flightradar24 indicated that the aircraft travelled westward before disappearing from tracking systems near the East Third Ring Road area, where many of Beijing’s tallest office towers are located.
The CITIC Tower, known for its distinctive design inspired by an ancient Chinese ceremonial vessel, is one of the most recognisable structures in the country. The building contains offices, commercial facilities and observation areas.
Authorities have yet to reveal what may have caused the incident. The crash has raised questions given Beijing’s tightly controlled airspace regulations, which have become even stricter in recent months.
Evacuations and Emergency Services Deployed
Witnesses reported hearing alarms inside the building shortly after the impact. Emergency personnel, including police officers, firefighters and ambulance crews, were seen surrounding the area as workers were evacuated from sections of the skyscraper.
Photographs circulating online appeared to show damage to the tower’s glass exterior, while debris believed to be from the aircraft was reportedly found near the building. Some images also showed what appeared to be a breach in the structure’s façade.
Officials have not confirmed whether there were any injuries or fatalities, either aboard the aircraft or on the ground.
Limited Information Released
As of Friday night, Chinese authorities had not issued a detailed public statement regarding the crash. State media outlets also had not provided extensive coverage of the incident.
Several social media posts discussing the event reportedly disappeared from Chinese online platforms shortly after they were published. However, videos and photographs continued to circulate on overseas social media networks.
One individual working inside the building told international media that an aircraft had struck the tower and that evacuation procedures were activated immediately afterwards. The person requested anonymity due to concerns about potential repercussions.
Investigators are expected to examine flight records, aircraft maintenance information and communications data to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash. Further updates are anticipated once authorities complete their preliminary assessment of the incident.