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DGCA launches full probe after chartered Learjet crashes near Baramati, killing Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and four others
The Ajit Pawar plane crash reason remains under investigation after a chartered Bombardier Learjet 45 carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar crashed while attempting to land at Baramati airport on January 28, 2026, killing all five persons on board. The aircraft burst into flames moments before touchdown, triggering an immediate response from aviation regulators and security agencies.
Ajit Pawar Plane Crash: What Happened on January 28
A private Learjet 45 (VT-SSK) operated by VSR Ventures departed Mumbai at 8:10 am for Baramati, Pawar’s political stronghold. The flight was expected to land around 8:50 am after a short 40-minute journey.
Flight-tracking data and preliminary reports suggest the aircraft made at least two landing approaches before the crash. During the final attempt, the jet suddenly lost altitude.
At 08:46:02 am, CCTV cameras installed near Baramati airport captured a massive fireball as the aircraft plunged into an open field close to the runway.
Eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple explosions seconds after impact.
All On Board Killed in Baramati Crash
Emergency services reached the site within minutes. However, the intensity of the fire left no chance of survival, officials said.
Those killed include:
- Ajit Pawar (66), Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister
- Two personal security and staff members
- Two crew members, including the pilot
Authorities later confirmed that the bodies were charred beyond recognition, requiring forensic identification.
The Maharashtra government announced three days of state mourning following the tragedy.
Aircraft and Operator Details
Bombardier Learjet 45: Key Facts
- Registration: VT-SSK
- Aircraft age: Approximately 16 years
- Type: Mid-size business jet
- Capacity: 8–9 passengers
The aircraft was operated by VSR Ventures (VSR Aviation), a Mumbai-based charter service provider.
Records indicate that the same operator was involved in a non-fatal landing incident in 2023, prompting renewed scrutiny of its safety and maintenance practices.
DGCA and AAIB Begin Investigation
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) immediately launched a formal probe into the Ajit Pawar plane crash reason.
Investigation teams have:
- Secured the crash site near Baramati airport
- Begun wreckage recovery operations
- Seized operator maintenance and flight records
- Examined CCTV footage and radar data
- Initiated questioning of VSR Ventures staff
Officials confirmed that all findings will be consolidated into a preliminary accident report.
What Investigators Are Examining
1. Cockpit Voice and Flight Data
Search teams are attempting to recover the CVR and FDR (if installed) to reconstruct the final moments in the cockpit.
2. Air Traffic Control Communication
ATC transcripts and radar tracking will be analysed to determine whether any distress call or abnormal communication occurred.
3. Aircraft Systems and Engines
Technical experts are examining:
- Engine performance
- Flight control systems
- Fuel quality and supply
- Possible mid-air fire or mechanical failure
4. Maintenance History
Regulators are auditing:
- Airworthiness certificates
- Inspection schedules
- Past defect reports
- Compliance with DGCA norms
Ajit Pawar Plane Crash Reason: Facts vs Speculation
Confirmed Facts
- The aircraft crashed during a landing attempt
- A fireball erupted on impact
- All five occupants died instantly
- Weather conditions were reportedly clear
Unconfirmed Possibilities Under Review
- Mechanical or engine failure
- Human or pilot error during approach
- Fuel contamination or ignition
- Maintenance lapses by operator
- Rare events such as bird strike
Aviation experts caution against drawing conclusions until forensic analysis is complete.
Pilot Experience Raises Key Questions
Media reports suggest the pilot had over 16,000 flight hours, indicating high experience levels. Investigators, however, stress that experience alone does not rule out:
- Situational overload
- Sudden system failure
- Approach instability
These aspects will be assessed once cockpit data is decoded.
Political Shockwaves Across Maharashtra
The sudden death of Ajit Pawar has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political landscape.
Leaders across party lines, including the Prime Minister and the Opposition, expressed condolences. Several official engagements across the state were cancelled.
Security around senior political leaders has also been reviewed in the aftermath.
What Happens Next:
The Ajit Pawar plane crash reason will only be conclusively known after the DGCA and AAIB submit their official findings. Until then, authorities have urged restraint against speculation.
A preliminary investigation report is expected in the coming weeks, followed by a detailed technical analysis. The tragedy is likely to prompt renewed scrutiny of India’s charter aviation safety norms.
❓ FAQs
Q: What caused Ajit Pawar’s plane crash?
A: The exact cause is unknown. DGCA and AAIB are investigating technical, human, and maintenance factors.
Q: Where did Ajit Pawar’s aircraft crash?
A: Near Baramati airport in Maharashtra during a landing attempt.
Q: What aircraft was involved in the crash?
A: A Bombardier Learjet 45 with registration VT-SSK.
Q: Was weather a factor in the crash?
A: Initial reports suggest clear weather, but official confirmation is awaited.
Q: Who is investigating the Ajit Pawar plane crash?
A: The DGCA and Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB).
References
https://apnews.com/article/india-plane-crash-ajit-pawar-modi-c9c3e127107bb606b24b6ae77e9fe939
