Maltese Pilot Walks Away After ‘Crash’ into Beijing’s Tallest Building
Maltese Pilot Safe After ‘Crash’ into Beijing’s Iconic Tower
In an extraordinary turn of events, a Maltese pilot walked away unharmed after his small aircraft ‘crashed’ into Beijing’s tallest building, the China Zun Tower, on Tuesday. The incident, which could have been catastrophic, resulted in no injuries and minimal damage, leaving locals and onlookers in disbelief.
Malta’s Connection to the Unlikely Incident
Malta’s connection to this international news story is none other than Captain Joseph Xuereb, a seasoned pilot who has been based in Beijing for the past decade. Xuereb, a native of Birkirkara, Malta, was flying his homemade, lightweight aircraft, a type of gyrocopter, when the unexpected happened.
“I was just out for a routine flight, enjoying the Beijing skyline,” Xuereb recounted in a brief interview with Hot Malta. “Next thing I know, I’m heading straight for the China Zun. I managed to steer away at the last moment, but the rotor blades clipped the top of the tower.”
Beijing’s Tallest Building: A Close Call
The China Zun Tower, standing at a staggering 528 meters tall, is Beijing’s most iconic skyscraper. Its unique, zun-shaped design is inspired by an ancient Chinese vessel, making it a symbol of the city’s rich history and rapid development. Xuereb’s gyrocopter, though lightweight, could have caused significant damage had it collided fully with the tower.
Luckily, Xuereb’s quick reflexes and the aircraft’s design minimized the impact. The gyrocopter’s rotor blades absorbed most of the force, snapping off on contact with the tower. Xuereb was left dangling from his harness, 500 meters above the ground, before being rescued by emergency services.
Xuereb’s aircraft, a self-built gyrocopter, is a testament to his passion for aviation. He has been building and flying these unique aircraft for over 20 years, a hobby he started back in Malta. “It’s a different kind of flying,” he explains. “You’re closer to the elements, more connected to the sky.”
Reaction in Malta and Beijing
News of Xuereb’s close call has reached Malta, where his family and friends are relieved that he is safe. “We’re just glad he’s okay,” said his sister, Maria Xuereb, speaking from their family home in Birkirkara. “It’s typical of Joe to find himself in such an unusual situation. He’s always been a bit of a daredevil.”
In Beijing, the incident has sparked a mix of shock and amusement. Videos of the ‘crash’ have gone viral on Chinese social media, with many expressing disbelief that such an incident could occur without causing more damage. Some have even joked that Xuereb’s gyrocopter is the smallest aircraft to ‘attack’ the China Zun Tower, referencing a famous scene from the movie “Top Gun”.
Xuereb, for his part, is taking the incident in stride. “I’ve always said, if you’re going to go down, go down in style,” he laughed, before adding, “I’m just glad I get to go up again.”
