India DGCA Probes Fatal Learjet 45 Crash Killing Ajit Pawar, Four Others

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is leading a detailed probe. The investigation follows the fatal crash of a chartered business jet. Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Ajit Pawar, was killed in the accident. Four other individuals on board also perished.

Crash Details and Fatalities

The accident occurred on Wednesday, January 28, 2026. The Learjet 45 was attempting to land in Baramati, Pune district. The aircraft crashed just short of the airstrip runway. The flight originated from the state capital, Mumbai. All five people on board were killed in the fiery crash. Victims included Mr. Pawar, two pilots, a flight attendant, and his personal security officer. The aircraft belonged to Delhi-based charter operator VSR Ventures.

Investigation Focus

India’s aviation regulator immediately launched an inquiry. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is overseeing the technical probe. Investigators have successfully recovered the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). They also secured the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) from the wreckage. Analysis of these 'black boxes' is crucial. It will help determine the precise cause of the accident. Early reports suggest low visibility was a potential factor. Visibility was reported at 3,000 meters at the time. Aviation experts noted this is below the ideal for visual flight rules (VFR). CCTV footage showed the jet banking steeply at a low altitude. Investigators are examining potential causes, including an aerodynamic stall. Engine failure or a hard banking maneuver are also being considered.

Charter Safety Context

The accident highlights charter aviation safety India standards. The Baramati airstrip is primarily used by flying training organizations. It operates under a Non-Scheduled Operator's Permit. This classification means it is not for commercial passenger flights. Crucially, the airstrip lacks standard navigation aids. It does not have an Instrument Landing System (ILS) or runway lights. Pilots rely on visual cues and GPS coordinates for landing.

Industry Impact and Regulatory Oversight

The loss of a prominent political figure puts intense scrutiny on the sector. Regulators face pressure to review safety protocols for non-scheduled operations.

• Risk Assessment: The lack of ILS at such airstrips poses a significant risk.
• Operational Review: The DGCA may review weather minimums for VFR operations.
• Aircraft Maintenance: The maintenance records of the chartered VSR Ventures Learjet will be checked.

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has assured a time-bound probe. All stakeholders await the final AAIB report. This report will offer definitive conclusions on the crash. It will guide future regulatory changes for business jet safety standards in India.

From airline operations to fleet updates, commercial aviation news lives at flying.flights.

For detailed airline coverage, route changes, and fleet moves, explore the Airlines section at flying.flights/airlines.