China has imposed restrictions on private aviation operators, grounding light fixed-wing aircraft following a tragic accident last week in Beijing. A small propeller plane collided with the 528-metre CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun, one of the tallest buildings in the Chinese capital, resulting in the death of the pilot and injuries to 13 other individuals.
In a significant development, private aviation fleets, including small propeller-driven aircraft and glider companies, have been suspended nationwide. Recreational activities such as skydiving and paragliding have also been halted due to a broad airspace control order implemented across the country. Flight-tracking data from Flightradar24 indicated a sharp decline in non-commercial and non-cargo aircraft movements in China the day after the crash. Authorities have yet to announce when these restrictions will be lifted.
The aircraft involved was identified as a Sunward SA60L Aurora, a domestically manufactured two-seat light-sport plane. Social media footage showed debris falling from the upper levels of the skyscraper immediately after the impact, with the plane’s tail section later found on the ground below. Local district officials in Beijing have confirmed that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash.
This incident comes amid a series of stricter aviation regulations in Beijing. Earlier this year, the city introduced stringent rules banning unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from operating in most areas. The last major aviation accident in the capital occurred in 2022, when a tourist helicopter crashed between the Changping and Fangshan districts, killing both pilots on board.
