Ajit Pawar Plane Crash: A Minute-by-Minute Account of the Tragic Baramati Incident
The aviation tragedy that claimed the life of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others unfolded during a morning flight from Mumbai to Baramati on January 28, 2026. This detailed reconstruction examines the critical moments leading to the fatal crash.
Early Morning Departure from Mumbai
At approximately 8:10 AM, the Bombardier Learjet 45XR (registration VT-SSK) operated by VSR Aviation departed from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai. The aircraft was carrying Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and his entourage to Baramati in Pune district for scheduled election-related engagements. The flight initially appeared routine according to standard flight tracking protocols.
Normal En Route Phase Followed by Approach Complications
Radar data indicates the aircraft maintained a standard flight profile during its journey toward Baramati. However, as the Learjet approached its destination around 8:30 AM, preliminary reports suggest the pilot may have attempted an initial landing approach that was subsequently aborted. Aviation experts speculate this could have been due to poor visibility conditions or alignment challenges with the runway.
The Fateful Second Landing Attempt at 8:45 AM
The aircraft circled for another approach, with radar tracking showing its final descent beginning around 8:45 AM. During this critical phase, the jet was attempting to land on Baramati Airport's Runway 11 when it veered off course just before reaching the runway threshold. Flight data confirms unstable flight behavior during these final moments.
Crash Impact and Immediate Aftermath
The chartered plane crash-landed near the runway threshold with significant force, failing to achieve a proper touchdown. Eyewitnesses reported the aircraft burst into flames immediately upon impact, creating a massive fireball and intense smoke. Multiple explosions—estimated between four to five successive blasts—followed the initial crash, complicating rescue efforts and confirming the accident's severity.
Aircraft Specifications and Historical Context
The involved aircraft was a Bombardier Learjet 45XR, a light business jet commonly used for charter operations. Investigators noted this particular aircraft had been involved in a previous crash-landing incident in 2023, though it had been cleared for service. The wreckage was scattered across an open field adjacent to Baramati Airport, with debris distribution indicating the violence of the impact.
Investigation Priorities and Safety Implications
Aviation authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation focusing on several key areas:
- Weather conditions during the approach phase
- Aircraft maintenance records and previous incident history
- Pilot decision-making during the aborted first approach
- Airport infrastructure and approach procedures at Baramati
- Possible technical malfunctions in the Learjet 45XR systems
This tragic incident has raised significant questions about charter flight safety protocols, particularly for high-profile political figures traveling to regional airports with potentially challenging approach conditions.
