A shocking plane crash at Baramati airport on January 28, 2026, killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and six others. This article covers crash details, political impact, and aviation safety concerns.
Table of Contents
A devastating plane crash at Baramati airport in Maharashtra has shocked the nation. On January 28, 2026, a Learjet 45 carrying Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar crashed during landing, killing seven people, including Pawar.
Who Was Ajit Pawar
Ajit Pawar served as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra for many years. He belonged to a major political family, with his uncle Sharad Pawar founding the Nationalist Congress Party, or NCP. Pawar handled key areas like water resources, farming, and local development in the state government. His sudden death leaves a huge void in NCP leadership and Maharashtra politics. Family members, including Supriya Sule and Sunetra Pawar, rushed from Delhi to Baramati after hearing the news.
Crash Details
The incident happened around 8:45 AM at Baramati airport in Pune district. The plane, registered as VT-SSK and run by VSR operators, flew from Mumbai with five passengers and two crew members on board. Ajit Pawar traveled with his personal security officer, an attendant, the pilot, and the co-pilot. Eyewitnesses heard a loud noise as the aircraft approached the runway, then saw it slide off and burst into flames. Rescue teams recovered bodies from the wreckage amid fire and explosions, but no one survived. The airport closed briefly due to the chaos.
DGCA Probe Underway
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation, known as DGCA, took charge of the investigation right away. It released an occurrence report noting the date, Learjet 45 model, VT-SSK registration, and all seven people on board. Early findings confirm no survivors, with experts now checking the black box, weather conditions, plane maintenance, and pilot actions. Possible causes include engine trouble or landing errors, but full results could take weeks. This step ensures families get clear answers.
Public Grief and Tributes
News of the crash spread quickly, leading to widespread sorrow in Maharashtra. NCP workers cried openly, calling Pawar a strong leader. Politicians from all parties sent condolences, praising his work on development projects. In Baramati, his home area, people gathered to mourn the loss of a key figure. Supporters worry about the ongoing local body elections, set for early February, without his guidance. The event united rivals in shared grief.
Political Fallout in Maharashtra
Ajit Pawar played a central role in the state’s alliance government, shaping decisions on farming, water, and growth in western Maharashtra. His absence may delay projects in Baramati and raise questions on the power balance between NCP and allies. NCP faces challenges to stay strong, especially with family leaders stepping in. Pawar had attended a cabinet meeting in Mumbai the day before and headed to Baramati for election-related events. This tragedy disrupts those plans and state leadership.
Aviation Safety Questions Raised
This crash highlights the dangers of small charter flights used by leaders. India has faced similar tragedies, like the 2021 helicopter crash that killed CDS Bipin Rawat. The weather was clear that morning, pointing to other issues like runway length or plane checks at Baramati. Past incidents at the airport involved trainer aircraft, fueling demands for longer runways and better pilot training. With over 100 daily flights in Maharashtra, each accident pushes for stricter rules on VIP charters and inspections. Families and the public seek quick safety fixes.
Safety First Amid Aviation Growth
India’s aviation sector grows fast with more private jets for leaders and business. Yet, crashes remind everyone of hidden risks, even on short trips. DGCA must review maintenance logs and flight paths to stop repeats. Political figures often fly charters for speed, but this event calls for top safety standards. Maharashtra leaders now focus on unity amid loss, while probes bring facts to light. The nation honors Pawar and the victims with hopes for safer skies.
Conclusion
The tragic crash at Baramati airport has left Maharashtra in mourning, robbing the state of a towering leader in Ajit Pawar. As investigations unfold, families and supporters grapple with profound loss, while NCP and allies face uncertain times ahead of key elections. This heartbreaking event spotlights urgent aviation safety gaps in India’s booming skies, from charter jet checks to runway upgrades. Past tragedies like CDS Bipin Rawat’s crash demand swift DGCA action, stricter rules, better training, and no shortcuts for VIP flights. Amid the sorrow, rivals unite in tribute, honoring Pawar’s legacy in water, farming, and growth. Maharashtra must now rally, fill the leadership void, and push for safer travel. The nation stands with Baramati, praying for answers, healing, and skies free from such shadows.
Source: Ajit Pawar Plane Crash Live updates: Maharashtra deputy CM dies in VSR Ventures plane & Ajit Pawar Plane Crash
Read Also: Not an Accident: The Systemic Failures Behind the Death of Yuvraj Mehta, 27, Noida & IndiGo Flight Chaos: Why Thousands Were Cancelled and How It Affects Travelers