Learjet 45 Crash Kills Ajit Pawar: AAIB Recovers Black Box in India Probe

A chartered Learjet 45 business jet crashed in India, killing all five people aboard. The victims included Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. The accident occurred near Baramati town on Wednesday morning. The aircraft was attempting an emergency landing at the local airstrip.

Accident Details and Casualties

The ill-fated aircraft, a Bombardier Learjet 45, was traveling from Mumbai. It was operated by VSR Ventures, a non-scheduled operator. Besides Pawar, the crash killed his personal security officer, two pilots, and a cabin crew member. The plane crashed around 9:00 AM local time. Eyewitness accounts describe the aircraft making noise before a fiery impact.

Investigation and Safety Concerns

India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), confirmed the fatalities. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has taken charge of the probe. Investigators quickly recovered the "black box" from the wreckage. This includes the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). Analysis of this data is critical to determining the crash cause.

Potential Crash Factors

Initial reports and expert analysis suggest several possible causes. These include an aerodynamic stall or engine failure. Another theory focuses on a late visual alignment with the runway. Visibility was reported at 3,000 meters, which is below the ideal for visual flight rules (VFR).

Baramati Airport Limitations

Questions have been raised about the Baramati airstrip's infrastructure. The airport lacks advanced navigation aids like an Instrument Landing System (ILS). It also does not have runway lights or a beacon. This forces pilots to rely heavily on visual approaches. The airstrip is primarily used by flying training organizations. It operates under a Non-Scheduled Operator's Permit, not for commercial flights.

Industry Impact and Oversight

The accident highlights persistent concerns over VVIP and chartered flight safety in India. Such incidents prompt a review of regulatory oversight by the DGCA for non-scheduled operators. Industry bodies are urging restraint from speculation until the AAIB concludes its work. The investigation will scrutinize maintenance records and pilot experience. This tragedy may lead to stricter standards for regional airstrip operations. It also pressures the government to enhance safety infrastructure at smaller airports.

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