Beijing: A small aircraft crashed into a high-rise building in central Beijing on Friday, triggering a massive fire and prompting an extensive emergency response. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash as rescue teams continue search and recovery operations.
The aircraft struck the upper floors of a commercial skyscraper, sending thick black smoke into the sky and causing panic among office workers and nearby residents. Emergency services, including firefighters, medical personnel, and police, rushed to the scene within minutes to contain the blaze and evacuate the building.
Chinese officials said several people are feared dead or injured, though the exact number of casualties has not yet been officially confirmed. Authorities have urged the public not to speculate while rescue efforts remain underway.
Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud explosion before seeing flames erupt from the building. Videos circulating on social media showed fire engulfing several floors as emergency crews battled the blaze from the ground and nearby rooftops.
The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) has opened an investigation to determine what caused the aircraft to crash. Aviation experts are expected to examine the plane’s flight data, maintenance records, pilot communications, and weather conditions before the incident.
Authorities temporarily closed surrounding roads and suspended access to nearby office complexes to facilitate emergency operations. Public transportation services in the affected area were also diverted as a precaution.
Officials confirmed that the building’s evacuation procedures were immediately activated, helping many occupants escape before the fire spread further. Hospitals across Beijing have been placed on alert to receive injured victims if required.
The incident has renewed concerns about aviation safety in densely populated urban areas, particularly regarding low-altitude flights over major cities. Investigators are expected to release preliminary findings after examining evidence from the crash site.
The Chinese government has assured the public that all necessary resources have been deployed for rescue operations and pledged a comprehensive investigation into one of the country’s most serious urban aviation incidents in recent years.
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