Ajit Pawar Died In Plane Crash Near Baramati: What We Know About The Aircraft And Incident
Ajit Pawar Died In Plane Crash Near Baramati: What We Know About The Aircraft And Incident
Pune | Maharashtra: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and senior Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar and four others were killed after a chartered aircraft crashed in Pune district on Wednesday morning, officials confirmed.
The aircraft, which had departed from Mumbai, was on its way to Baramati for a series of political rallies ahead of the local body elections. According to PTI, Ajit Pawar was scheduled to attend four major public meetings during the visit.
Crash During Landing Attempt
Preliminary findings from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) indicate that the aircraft encountered serious technical problems and instability during its final approach at around 8.45 am. Officials said the pilot reportedly lost control while attempting to land at Baramati airport, following which the plane crash-landed and burst into flames.
Among those killed were two pilots, two passengers, including an aircraft attendant, and Ajit Pawar’s personal security officer.
Visuals from the crash site showed the aircraft completely destroyed, with wreckage scattered across the area as thick smoke and flames engulfed the remains of the jet.
Aircraft Involved: Learjet 45XR
According to a report in NDTV, the aircraft involved in the fatal crash was a Learjet 45XR, a high-performance super-light business jet widely used for short- to medium-haul flights. The jet, registered as VT-SSK, is owned by VSR Ventures Private Limited, one of India’s major non-scheduled aircraft operators.
Known for its speed, fuel efficiency, and high-altitude capabilities, the Learjet 45XR has a wingspan of 47 feet and a maximum take-off weight of 9,752 kg. The aircraft is commonly used for executive travel and charter operations.
VSR Ventures Private Limited, founded by VK Singh, specialises in private jet charters, helicopter services, medical evacuation (air ambulance) operations, and aircraft leasing. Headquartered in Mahipalpur, New Delhi, the company manages a diverse fleet that includes the Learjet 45XR, Beechcraft Super King Air B200, and Agusta 109 helicopters.
Investigation Underway
The DGCA has launched a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. More information is expected once flight data and technical assessments are completed.
Further updates are awaited.
