China Says Personal Factors Led to Beijing Plane Crash
BEIJING-Chinese authorities said on Thursday that a preliminary investigation found personal factors led to last week’s crash of a small aircraft into Beijing’s tallest building, after investigators cited diary entries indicating the pilot had been experiencing severe personal distress.
A statement issued by the Chaoyang district government said the investigation concluded the June 26 crash was caused by “personal reasons.” The pilot, identified only by his surname, Liu, was killed, while 13 other people were injured.
Authorities said none of the injuries were life-threatening and that one injured person had already been discharged from hospital.
The incident occurred at about 6 p.m. in Beijing’s central business district, when the aircraft struck the 108-story CITIC Tower, commonly known as the “Zun” building because of its resemblance to an ancient Chinese ceremonial wine vessel. The impact damaged part of the skyscraper’s glass facade.
According to the official statement, Liu, 66, initially flew with another person in the two-seat training aircraft before departing alone from a general aviation airport on the outskirts of Beijing. Investigators said he later deviated from the approved flight route, after which communication with the aircraft was lost.
The government said Liu was divorced, lived alone and did not have permanent employment. Investigators also said he had experienced insomnia and anxiety, and that diary entries reflected severe emotional distress. Authorities cited those findings as part of their assessment that the crash was linked to personal circumstances.
The crash prompted questions about aviation security in the Chinese capital because it occurred in one of Beijing’s busiest commercial districts during the evening rush hour.
Officials did not indicate that any mechanical failure or external interference contributed to the crash, and the investigation remains subject to the authorities’ findings.
The CITIC Tower, one of Beijing’s most recognizable landmarks, is the tallest building in the Chinese capital and serves as office space for financial institutions and major corporations. Emergency responders secured the area following the incident while investigators examined the crash site and gathered evidence.
