Tragic Plane Crash Claims Life of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and Four Others
In a devastating aviation accident that has sent shockwaves across Maharashtra, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four other individuals lost their lives on Wednesday morning. The tragic incident occurred when a chartered Learjet 45 crash-landed at Baramati airport, resulting in immediate fatalities.
Details of the Fatal Crash
The aircraft, registered as VT-SSK and operated by VSR, had taken off from Mumbai earlier in the day. According to preliminary reports from aviation authorities, the jet encountered difficulties while attempting to land near the threshold of Runway 11 at approximately 08:45 AM. It is reported that the aircraft lost control during the landing phase, striking the runway with significant force and erupting into flames almost instantly.
Emergency response teams were dispatched to the site with urgency, but despite their rapid efforts, all five occupants aboard the flight were declared dead at the scene. The victims have been officially identified as:
- Ajit Pawar – Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister
- Vidip Jadhav
- Pinky Mali
- Sumit Kapoor – Pilot in Command
- Shambhavi Pathak – Co-pilot
Investigation and Background of the Crew
Authorities have confirmed that an investigation into the precise cause of the crash is currently underway. Initial assessments indicate that weather conditions were favorable at the time of the accident, with visibility recorded at around 3,500 metres, effectively ruling out fog as a contributing factor.
The pilot in command, Sumit Kapoor, was an experienced aviator with an impressive 16,500 hours of flying experience, underscoring his proficiency in handling such aircraft. The co-pilot, Shambhavi Pathak, had a strong educational background in aeronautics, having completed her degree from the University of Mumbai and receiving training at the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy. Her LinkedIn profile also reveals that she was an alumnus of the Air Force Bal Bharati School.
Aircraft and Aftermath
The Learjet 45 involved in the crash is a mid-size business jet renowned for its advanced avionics and reliable performance, commonly utilized for charter flights and official travel. The incident has prompted an outpouring of grief, with family members of the deceased and senior political leaders making their way to Baramati as the investigation continues.
This tragic event highlights the critical importance of aviation safety and has left the state mourning the loss of a prominent political figure and his companions. The community awaits further details as officials work diligently to uncover the factors that led to this fatal crash.
