Small Aircraft Crashes into Beijing's Tallest Skyscraper

A small aircraft reportedly crashed into Beijing's tallest skyscraper, the 109-story CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun, on Friday, June 26, 2026, sending debris plummeting to the streets below and prompting evacuations. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud crash around 6 p.m. local time, with images and videos circulating online showing wreckage and damage to the building's upper floors.

The incident occurred despite Beijing's tightly controlled airspace, where light aircraft operations are heavily restricted and require multiple approvals. While the aircraft is believed to be a Sunward SA 60L Aurora, a two-seat light-sport model, authorities have not officially confirmed details regarding casualties, the number of people on board, or the cause of the crash.

Emergency services quickly cordoned off the area around the skyscraper in the central business district. Official statements from Chinese authorities have been notably absent, and reports indicate that social media posts related to the event were rapidly removed or restricted.