EASA Suspends Indian Operator VSR Ventures' EU Access After Accidents
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
EASA suspended Indian operator VSR Ventures' Third Country Operator authorisation after multiple safety incidents, halting its flights to the European Union.
Key Takeaways
- •Suspended VSR Ventures' Third Country Operator (TCO) authorisation, blocking access to 31 EU states.
- •Cited a Level 1 safety finding linked to a 2023 Learjet 45XR runway excursion in Mumbai.
- •Followed a separate fatal crash of a company Learjet 45XR in Baramati in January 2026, killing five.
- •Prompts increased DGCA scrutiny of non-scheduled VIP flight operators in India.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has suspended the Third Country Operator (TCO) authorisation for Indian charter operator VSR Ventures, effectively barring the company from operating in 31 European countries. The regulatory action follows a series of safety events, including a fatal crash in January 2026 and a serious runway excursion incident in 2023.
The suspension of a TCO authorisation is a significant measure that prevents non-EU commercial air transport operators from conducting flights into, within, or out of EASA member states. For VSR Ventures, this decision curtails any potential European operations and places its safety oversight under intense international scrutiny. The action underscores the global reach of EASA's safety mandate and the consequences for operators who fail to meet international standards.
Regulatory Action and Safety Findings
According to regulatory filings, EASA's decision was precipitated by a Level 1 Safety Finding, the most severe category of non-compliance. This finding indicates a significant safety risk or a failure by the operator to cooperate with regulatory oversight. The finding was directly linked to the aftermath of a Learjet 45XR accident on September 14, 2023, at Mumbai Airport.
In that incident, the aircraft experienced a runway excursion during landing. While the Pilot-in-Command (PIC) and six passengers sustained minor injuries, the co-pilot was seriously injured, and the aircraft was destroyed. EASA's subsequent review reportedly found deficiencies in the operator's follow-up and safety management processes, leading to the suspension.
This action occurred in the context of another, more recent tragedy involving the operator. On January 28, 2026, a different VSR Ventures-operated Learjet 45XR crashed while on approach to Baramati airport. The accident resulted in five fatalities, including prominent politician Ajit Pawar, two pilots, a flight attendant, and a security officer. India's Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is leading the investigation into the Baramati crash.
Operator and Fleet Scrutiny
VSR Ventures, which held a valid Air Operator Permit in India last renewed in April 2023, operated a diverse fleet. At the time of the Baramati crash, the company reportedly had 17 aircraft. However, an Asian Sky Group Report from May 2024 indicated its fleet had been reduced to eight aircraft.
The aircraft involved in both incidents was the Bombardier Learjet 45XR, a mid-sized business jet with a typical capacity for 8-9 passengers. Production for this model ceased in 2012. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 21,500 lbs and a range of approximately 2,000 nautical miles.
The dual accidents have placed a spotlight on the safety standards of non-scheduled operators in India. Following the Baramati crash, the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation directed the DGCA to conduct special audits of other major non-scheduled operators involved in VIP transport, signaling a broader regulatory response to the incidents.
What Comes Next
India's Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is conducting the formal investigation into the Baramati crash, adhering to the standards and recommended practices of ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) Annex 13. The findings of this investigation will be critical in determining the probable cause and any contributing factors.
For VSR Ventures, the path to resuming European operations is contingent on successfully addressing EASA's Level 1 Safety Finding. This will require the operator to demonstrate comprehensive corrective actions and prove the effectiveness of its Safety Management System (SMS) to both the DGCA and EASA. The timeline for any potential reinstatement of the TCO authorisation remains uncertain and is subject to rigorous regulatory approval.
Why This Matters
In my view, this case is a stark reminder of how interconnected global aviation safety has become. EASA's action demonstrates that a local operator's safety record can have immediate and severe international commercial consequences, regardless of where the incidents occur. It highlights the power of a single, harmonized safety standard like the TCO to enforce compliance across borders, putting pressure on national authorities like the DGCA to ensure their certified operators meet global benchmarks. For aviation professionals, this underscores that safety is not just a local or national concern but a prerequisite for global market access.
Get breaking commercial aviation news and expert airline analysis at flying.flights. For airline finances, mergers, and industry strategy, visit the Business category at flying.flights/business.
Written by Ujjwal Sukhwani
Aviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience. Covers flight operations, safety regulations, and market trends with expert analysis.
Visit ProfileYou Might Also Like
Discover more aviation news based on similar topics
Nigeria Considers Foreign Carrier Curbs to Boost Local Airlines
Nigeria is reportedly considering restricting foreign airline access to its primary hubs to foster growth for domestic carriers in international markets.
EASA Issues New Maintenance Directive for Airbus BelugaXL Fleet
EASA has issued a new airworthiness directive for the Airbus A330-743L BelugaXL fleet, mandating updated structural integrity inspection schedules.
CBI Seeks to Close Air India Aircraft Leasing Irregularities Case
India's CBI has filed a closure report in the Air India aircraft leasing case, concluding no criminal intent was found in the long-running investigation.
US Airlines Fear EU-Wide Impact from Dublin Airport Cap Ruling
US airlines warn an EU court ruling on Dublin's passenger cap could allow planners across the bloc to unilaterally restrict airport capacity.
House Rejects ROTOR Act Mandating Aircraft Locator Systems
The U.S. House failed to pass the ROTOR Act, a bill requiring collision avoidance systems on all aircraft following last year's fatal midair collision.
US Eliminates 10% Tariff on Brazilian Aircraft Exports After Court Ruling
The US has eliminated a 10% tariff on Brazilian aircraft, a move that levels the playing field for manufacturer Embraer against its global competitors.