In response to the Learjet 45 crash at Baramati on January 28, 2026, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a special safety audit targeting non-scheduled operators. The audit targets larger operators first in a phased approach, starting February 4, 2026, and includes VSR Ventures Pvt Ltd, operator of the involved aircraft VT-SSK.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The accident claimed the lives of five individuals, including Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, his personal security officer, the pilot, co-pilot, and flight attendant. The chartered flight from Mumbai to Baramati ended in a crash-landing at the runway threshold amid poor visibility conditions.
Ongoing Investigation Progress
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) and DGCA continue their probe into the loss of control during the landing attempt. Investigation teams, each with three officers from AAIB and DGCA’s Mumbai Regional Office, reached the site on the day of the crash. The AAIB Director General also inspected the scene that day.
Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol confirmed the recovery of the black box. Speaking to the media, Mohol stated, “The black box has been recovered, and the AAIB team and the DGCA are working on it. I believe the data will be downloaded as soon as possible. Some analysis will be done, an inquiry will be held, and after that, I think the preliminary report will also be released.”
Mohol emphasized that the probe follows Rules 5 and 11 of the AAIB Rules, 2025, ensuring a thorough examination. Authorities urge against premature conclusions as the black box analysis promises key insights into the sequence of events. A preliminary report is anticipated soon after initial data review.
Impact and Calls for Safety
The tragedy has reverberated through Maharashtra’s political circles, prompting tributes to Ajit Pawar and demands for stricter safety protocols in charter flights.
