DGCA Issues Preliminary Probe Report Of Learjet 45 Crash at Baramati Airport That Killed Ajit Pawar
New Delhi, Jan 28 (TNA) A tragic aviation accident occurred on January 28, 2026, when a Learjet 45 aircraft bearing registration VT-SSK crashed at Baramati Airport in Maharashtra, resulting in the death of all five persons on board, including Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The aircraft was operated by M/s VSR Ventures Pvt. Ltd., a non-scheduled operator, and was flying the Mumbai–Baramati sector at the time of the accident.
According to preliminary information, the aircraft was cleared to land on Runway 11 at 08:43 IST. However, air traffic control did not receive a readback of the landing clearance. Moments later, at around 08:44 IST, ATC personnel observed flames near the threshold of Runway 11. Emergency services were immediately dispatched to the site. The wreckage of the aircraft was later found on the left side of the runway abeam the threshold of Runway 11, indicating a catastrophic impact during the landing phase.
The incident has sent shockwaves across the state and the aviation community, prompting renewed focus on business jet safety and operational oversight.
There were five occupants on board, including two crew members and three passengers. All sustained fatal injuries, making it one of the most serious aviation tragedies in recent years involving a business jet in India.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has formally taken over the investigation. The Director General, AAIB, is reaching the accident site, and a detailed probe is underway to determine the exact cause of the crash. Authorities have stated that further information will be shared as the investigation progresses.
M/s VSR Ventures Pvt. Ltd. holds a Non-Scheduled Operator Permit (NSOP) issued in 2014, with its Air Operator Permit valid until April 20, 2028. The company operates a fleet of 17 aircraft, including seven Learjet 45s. Notably, one of the operator’s Learjet 45 aircraft was earlier involved in a landing accident at Mumbai Airport in September 2023, which is still under investigation by AAIB.
The crashed aircraft was manufactured in 2010 and held valid certificates of registration, airworthiness, and airworthiness review. It was powered by TFE731-20BR engines and had accumulated over 4,900 flight hours. The pilot-in-command was an ATPL holder with more than 15,000 flying hours, highlighting that the crew was experienced.