Small plane crashes into Beijing's tallest skyscraper, dramatic videos show falling debris

A small plane crashed into Beijing’s tallest building Friday night, prompting a major emergency response in the Chinese capital. Authorities have not yet confirmed any casualties, and the cause of the crash remains unclear.

The incident occurred at CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun, the tallest building in Beijing and the headquarters of the state-owned CITIC Group. Witnesses reported seeing a small plane crash into a skyscraper before debris hit the ground.

Emergency crews rush to the CITIC tower after the plane hit

According to CNN, people inside the skyscraper evacuated the building and gathered near its entrance, where several fire engines, police cars and ambulances were deployed.

Reuters news agency also reported a heavy police presence around the site, with authorities closing several roads leading to the tower. Police officers were seen preventing people from taking pictures and ushering bystanders away from the area.

Videos show debris falling from China’s tallest building

Videos circulating on social media showed dramatic scenes of debris falling from the upper floors of the skyscraper. In the footage, part of the plane’s tail appeared to be lying on the ground next to the taxi’s broken window.

According to Reuters, two glass panels on a high floor of the building were damaged in the impact. There was no immediate official statement from Chinese authorities on the incident.

CITIC Tower, commonly known as China Zun, is a landmark in Beijing’s central business district. Rising more than 500 meters into the skyline, it serves as the headquarters of the state-owned CITIC Group and is the tallest building in the Chinese capital.

Police are closing roads, restricting filming around the scene of the accident

Reuters reported that security around the crash site was quickly tightened.

Several roads leading to the building were closed to traffic while officers were seen asking people to move away from the area. Some people were also prevented from taking photographs as emergency operations continued, according to Reuters.

The aircraft is considered a domestic light sport aircraft

According to CNN, the plane’s registration indicated it was a Sunward SA 60L Aurora, a domestic light sport aircraft owned by a local general aviation company.

The report also said unverified flight data from Flightradar24 showed the plane was following a significantly deviated flight path before the crash. However, the flight data has not been independently verified.

Authorities have not yet released what caused the plane to crash into the building, nor have they released information on possible injuries or fatalities. An official investigation is expected as emergency services continue to operate at the scene.