DGCA-AAIB Team Conducts Baramati Site Visit in Fatal Learjet Crash Investigation
A joint investigation team from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) visited Baramati on Wednesday as part of the ongoing probe into the tragic Learjet plane crash on January 28. The crash claimed the lives of former deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar and four other individuals, sending shockwaves through Maharashtra's political and aviation circles.
MLA Rohit Pawar Levels Serious Allegations, Demands International Probe
The joint team's visit came just one day after NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar made serious allegations regarding the crash. In a series of statements, he pointed fingers at the pilot-in-command of the ill-fated aircraft and VSR Ventures, the aviation company operating the plane. Rohit Pawar highlighted the pilot's alleged drinking habits and violations of flight duty norms, while also questioning whether VSR Ventures was rushing to complete another flight schedule.
He went so far as to suggest there were "ample grounds to suspect the crash as a possible sabotage" and has demanded an investigation by an international agency to ensure transparency and thoroughness.
Investigation Team Gathers Crucial Evidence at Crash Site and Airstrip
During their visit to Baramati, the DGCA-AAIB team engaged in multiple evidence-gathering activities. They collected detailed information about the Baramati airstrip, which is managed by the Maharashtra Airport Development Company Limited (MADC). This airstrip features a table-top runway and is classified as an uncontrolled airport, adding complexity to the investigation.
The team also reviewed CCTV camera feeds from the area and conducted a thorough examination of the crash site itself. "Probe teams visited Baramati frequently after the crash as part of the investigation to get all possible information to ensure that all angles related to the accident were covered and investigated," a source familiar with the matter revealed. The source further indicated that more such visits are likely in the near future as the investigation progresses.
New Video Footage Emerges, Depicting Horrific Crash Sequence
Recently, a new video of the plane crash surfaced, providing chilling visual evidence of the incident. The footage shows the aircraft descending almost nose-down before violently impacting the ground and erupting into a massive ball of fire. This video is expected to be a critical piece of evidence for investigators as they work to determine the exact cause of the crash.
Political Implications and Ongoing Scrutiny
The crash has significant political ramifications, given Ajit Pawar's prominent role in Maharashtra politics. In a related development, Rohit Pawar announced the postponement of a press conference scheduled for February 12 on political issues, indicating the sensitivity and priority of the crash investigation. The allegations of sabotage and operational negligence have intensified public and media scrutiny, putting pressure on authorities to deliver a conclusive and credible investigation report.
As the DGCA and AAIB continue their meticulous work, the aviation community and the public await answers that could lead to enhanced safety measures and accountability in India's civil aviation sector.
