A small aircraft crashed into Beijing’s tallest building—the CITIC Tower, also known as ‘China Zun’—on the evening of Friday, June 26, 2026, causing panic across the Chinese capital. The impact occurred around 6 p.m. local time and was so severe that the plane disintegrated upon collision. Debris rained down near the tower’s east entrance, and thick smoke rose from the ground floor.
Damage and Casualties
The crash shattered two windows on the skyscraper’s upper floors. According to initial reports, at least two people died: 36-year-old Morreira Souto, son of a local district mayor, and 34-year-old pilot Wellington Oliveira. Three others sustained serious injuries. Authorities confirmed that no one inside the building was hurt.
About the Aircraft and Flight
The aircraft involved was identified as a Sunward SA60L Aurora, registered B-12PP, operated by Shuangyue General Aviation Beijing. It had taken off approximately 30 minutes earlier from Xifosi Airport and was reportedly preparing to return for landing when it deviated from its flight path for unknown reasons.
About the Building
The CITIC Tower, located in Beijing’s central business district in Chaoyang District, stands 528 meters (about 1,700 feet) tall with 109 floors. Completed in 2018, it is China’s tallest building and one of the most prominent landmarks in the city.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. No motive or technical details have been confirmed at this stage.