Chinese Influencer Dies in Mid-Air Crash as Livestream Audience Watches in Horror
Chinese influencer dies tragically after his ultralight aircraft crashed during a live broadcast, sending shockwaves across social media and raising fresh concerns over flight safety. The incident took place on September 27 in Jiange County, central China, and claimed the life of 55-year-old aviation content creator Tang Feiji, who had gained over 100,000 followers on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok.
The horrifying moment unfolded live as hundreds of his fans watched in disbelief. Tang, who was known for his adventurous content and love for flying, had often spoken about his passion for aviation and shared videos of his flight experiences. But his confidence turned fatal when the aircraft lost control mid-air and crashed into the ground, bursting into flames on impact. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Investigations revealed that Tang had purchased the ultralight aircraft for around $49,000 and had previously claimed that he learned to control it after only six hours of practice. This revelation has sparked widespread debate online, with many questioning the lack of strict regulations and safety protocols for private flying.
Chinese Influencer Dies: Safety Oversights and Reckless Choices Under Scrutiny
The crash has brought attention to the serious risks associated with unregulated aviation practices. Reports indicate that Tang was neither wearing a helmet nor equipped with a parachute during the flight. His decision to fly without basic safety gear has been widely criticized, especially given the high risks associated with ultralight aircraft.
This was not Tang’s first brush with danger. Earlier in 2024, he experienced two incidents of fuel gauge malfunction that caused sudden drops during flight. Despite these warnings, he continued piloting without professional training or safety certification. Aviation experts say the crash could have been prevented with proper guidance, routine checks, and adherence to safety protocols.
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Viewers of the livestream described the moments leading up to the accident as chaotic. Comments flooded the screen as the aircraft descended rapidly, with fans pleading for emergency help. The video was later removed from Douyin and Tang’s account was made private, but clips quickly spread across other platforms, fueling public discussions about influencer accountability and aviation safety standards.
Chinese Influencer Dies: Shockwaves Through Online Community
The online community has been deeply affected by Tang’s sudden death. Followers shared emotional tributes, remembering him as a passionate and fearless creator who inspired many to chase their dreams. Yet, the tragedy has also triggered a broader conversation about the responsibility influencers carry, especially when performing risky stunts in front of large audiences.
Authorities are now investigating the cause of the crash and reviewing existing aviation safety laws. Experts argue that the incident highlights the urgent need for tighter regulations around private flying and stricter enforcement of training requirements. Without proper oversight, they warn, similar tragedies could occur again as more individuals attempt high-risk activities for online fame. Also Read: Chinese Actor Chaoyang Case Takes Unexpected Turn as Police Reveal Final Findings in 2025
Conclusion
The devastating incident in which a Chinese influencer dies mid-livestream serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unregulated aviation and the importance of safety precautions. Tang Feiji’s death has left his followers in shock and has reignited debates over influencer responsibility, flight regulations, and the risks of pushing limits for online content. As investigations continue, authorities face mounting pressure to ensure such preventable tragedies never happen again.
