A sightseeing flight ended in a terrifying accident after a Harbin XLI (Celier Xenon) gyroplane, registration B-72HX, crashed into a tourist area at the famous Chaka Salt Lake in Qinghai Province, China.
Dramatic footage shows the yellow gyroplane flying at low altitude before suddenly emitting smoke, losing control, and spinning toward the ground. As visitors ran for safety, the aircraft crashed into the crowd, striking two tourists.
Both injured tourists suffered serious head injuries but remained conscious and were transported to hospital, where officials confirmed their vital signs are stable. The pilot and passengers escaped without injuries and immediately rushed to assist the victims.
Preliminary information suggests the gyroplane encountered rotor downwash (wake turbulence) from another gyroplane operating nearby during the low-altitude sightseeing flight, causing the pilot to lose control.
The aircraft sustained substantial damage, while authorities have seized the gyroplane and launched a full investigation into the incident.
Aircraft: Harbin XLI (Celier Xenon) Gyroplane
Registration: B-72HX
Location: Chaka Salt Lake Tourist Area, Ulan County, Haixi Mongol and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, China
Fortunately, there were no fatalities, but the incident highlights the risks of close-proximity, low-altitude sightseeing operations.
