China Tightens Beijing Airspace Rules After Aircraft Crashes Into Tower

China will introduce a new no-fly zone over Beijing and further tighten drone restrictions following a rare light-aircraft crash into the capital’s tallest skyscraper earlier this year.

The new no-fly zone will take effect on Sept 20 and cover Beijing and surrounding areas. Regular commercial airline flights and emergency rescue operations will be exempt from the restrictions.

The measures follow a June 26 incident in which a light general aviation aircraft crashed into the 108-storey CITIC Tower, also known as China Zun, in Beijing’s central business district.

The crash killed the aircraft’s sole occupant, the pilot, and injured 13 people on the ground, according to local authorities. The aircraft had reportedly deviated from its approved flight area and lost contact with the airport from which it had taken off.

Authorities have not yet released the exact boundaries or altitude limits of the new no-fly zone. The restrictions are intended to strengthen airspace management around the capital and provide greater protection for important sites and public safety.

Beijing is already subject to extensive airspace controls, particularly around the city’s political and ceremonial centre. The latest measures will expand restrictions beyond the existing permanent no-fly area.

The city is also imposing tougher rules on drones. From Nov 15, the possession, operation and storage of drones will be prohibited across Beijing, under revised municipal regulations.

The new rules come after authorities had already introduced tighter controls on drone sales and registration in the capital. Officials said the latest restrictions are aimed at strengthening security and managing the use of unmanned aircraft.

The June crash had prompted increased scrutiny of general aviation in China. Some sightseeing flight operators suspended their services following the incident as authorities examined how the aircraft entered an unauthorised flight path.

The new restrictions mark a further tightening of Beijing’s already heavily controlled airspace, while scheduled passenger flights and emergency aviation operations will continue under the exemptions announced by authorities.