Light aircraft reportedly strikes Beijing’s tallest skyscraper, triggering evacuation

A small Sunward SA 60L Aurora aircraft registered B-12PP reportedly struck CITIC Tower—also known as China Zun and the tallest building in Beijing—on Friday afternoon, prompting an emergency response and the evacuation of the skyscraper. Initial reports and social media footage showed debris falling from the 109-storey tower, including what appeared to be parts of the aircraft, while emergency services quickly cordoned off the area.

Witnesses reported seeing fire engines, police vehicles and ambulances at the scene as occupants were evacuated from the building. Images circulating online appeared to show wreckage from a light aircraft, possibly a domestically produced Sunward SA60L Aurora operated by a local general aviation company, although authorities had not officially confirmed the aircraft type at the time of writing.

Unverified flight-tracking data shared online suggested that the aircraft may have deviated significantly from its planned flight path before the accident. The extent of any casualties or damage remains unclear, and Chinese authorities have yet to release official details regarding the cause of the incident.

The accident is particularly notable given Beijing’s highly restricted airspace and stringent controls on low-altitude aviation activities within the capital. Investigations are expected to focus on the aircraft’s flight path, operational authorisations and the circumstances that led to the apparent collision.