The State
Baramati Learjet crash claims lives of Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, his crew including Captain Shambhavi Pathak; investigation launched into causes.
In a devastating aviation accident on Wednesday morning, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was killed when the chartered Learjet 45XR aircraft (VT‑SSK) he was travelling in crash‑landed near Baramati Airport in Pune district. All five people on board died, including the co‑pilot Captain Shambhavi Pathak and pilot Captain Sumit Kapoor.
The flight, operated by VSR Aviation, had departed from Mumbai International Airport and was making its final approach to Baramati when it plunged to the ground shortly before landing and burst into flames.
Authorities confirmed the identities of all those on board the flight:
Captain Shambhavi Pathak, a well‑qualified aviator, had trained at the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy and held both Indian and international pilot licences
Eyewitnesses reported the aircraft fell roughly 100 feet short of the runway at Baramati and exploded into flames, producing multiple blasts that made rescue efforts extremely difficult. Locals rushed to the scene but could not assist due to the intensity of the blaze.
The Learjet took off early in the morning and was scheduled to land at around 8:48 AM IST. Officials said visibility was clear at the time, and the jet had previously aborted a first landing attempt before the fatal second approach.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has begun a detailed investigation into the crash. Early examinations will consider aircraft systems, pilot communication, weather conditions and runway approach data. VSR Aviation officials said the aircraft and crew were experienced and maintained to standards, but final causes will be confirmed only after thorough analysis.
The sudden death of Ajit Pawar, a seasoned and influential leader in Maharashtra politics, has drawn widespread shock and grief. Political leaders across India expressed sorrow, and a three‑day state mourning period was announced by the Maharashtra government.
At the crash site, party workers and residents gathered in disbelief, paying tribute to Pawar’s decades‑long public service and leadership.
Captain Shambhavi Pathak’s death has particularly drawn attention, as she represented a new generation of Indian aviators — disciplined, trained internationally, and rising through professional ranks. Her loss, along with that of the experienced Captain Kapoor, has been mourned by aviation communities and public alike
Investigators from the DGCA and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau will continue examining the wreckage and flight data. Officials aim to determine whether technical failure, human factors, weather or landing conditions contributed to this tragic accident.
As Maharashtra and the nation grieve, the focus remains on honoring the memories of those lost and uncovering answers that could prevent future tragedies.
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