Chinese authorities have concluded that the pilot who crashed a light aircraft into Beijing’s tallest skyscraper acted for personal reasons. Officials said the pilot struggled with chronic insomnia and anxiety before the incident. Moreover, investigators found evidence suggesting he had expressed suicidal thoughts in his personal diary.
Investigation Reveals Pilot’s Personal Struggles
Authorities released the findings on Thursday after investigating the crash at the 109-storey CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun. The accident killed the 66-year-old pilot, identified only by his surname, Liu. Additionally, the crash injured 13 people, although one victim has since left the hospital.
Investigators said Liu lived alone in Beijing and worked as a freelancer. He was also divorced, according to the official report. Furthermore, authorities said his diary contained multiple entries expressing a desire to end his life.
Officials concluded that the incident endangered public safety because of personal reasons. However, they did not announce any evidence linking the crash to terrorism or external involvement.
Security Concerns Follow High-Rise Aircraft Crash
Videos of the crash spread rapidly across social media before Chinese authorities removed them. The incident sparked widespread concern because the CITIC Tower stands only a few kilometres from Zhongnanhai, the Communist Party headquarters.
Following the crash, authorities also removed unrelated images and memes featuring the skyscraper. Meanwhile, several aviation companies reportedly suspended light aircraft operations after receiving official instructions.
Officials said Liu departed from an airport in Beijing’s Pinggu district on the day of the crash. He completed accompanied and solo flights before leaving the designated flight area. Consequently, he lost contact with the airport before crashing into the skyscraper.
Authorities said Liu received his sport pilot licence in 2021 and his private pilot licence in 2024. He flew a two-seat, single-engine Aurora SA60L aircraft manufactured by Sunward Aircraft. The aircraft is commonly used for recreational flying, aerial photography, and touring.
