Flight Data Successfully Retrieved from Ajit Pawar's Crashed Learjet
The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced on Thursday that data from the Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR) of the Learjet 45 aircraft that crashed near Baramati, killing Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others, has been successfully downloaded. The retrieval was completed at the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau's (AAIB) Flight Recorder Laboratory.
Preliminary Report Expected Within 30 Days
The ministry confirmed that a preliminary report into the January 28 accident will be issued within 30 days, in strict compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) norms. All investigative actions are being conducted with full transparency and professional integrity, according to official statements.
The crashed aircraft, owned by VSR Ventures, was equipped with both a Digital Flight Data Recorder and a Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). Both devices suffered significant damage from intense heat and fire exposure during the crash.
Technical Investigation Progresses Despite Challenges
The AAIB's investigation is described as technical and evidence-based, involving systematic examination of wreckage, operational and maintenance records, and laboratory testing of components where necessary. While data from the L3-Communications manufactured DFDR has been successfully recovered, the Honeywell-manufactured Cockpit Voice Recorder is undergoing detailed technical examination.
"Assistance has been sought from the Accredited Representative of the State of Manufacture for specialised support in data retrieval," the AAIB stated in a February 17 announcement.
Special Audits Ordered for Aviation Safety Compliance
Following the tragic accident, the ministry directed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to conduct a comprehensive special audit of VSR Ventures. This audit covers multiple critical areas:
- Regulatory compliance and operational control systems
- Maintenance practices and crew training standards
- Safety management systems implementation
- CVR and FDR monitoring procedures
The audit commenced on February 4, 2026, and is expected to conclude shortly. Findings will be reviewed, with appropriate action taken according to DGCA's Enforcement Policy and Procedures Manual.
Expanded Safety Scrutiny for VIP Operations
The regulator has also been instructed to conduct special audits of other major non-scheduled operators and aerodromes engaged in VIP and VVIP operations. These audits are being conducted in phases, with enforcement action to be taken wherever required.
In 2025, the DGCA conducted 51 regulatory audits of non-scheduled operators. Multiple surveillances of VSR Ventures were carried out in areas including flight safety systems, flight duty time limitations, maintenance compliance, documentation, and station facilities, with all findings addressed and closed.
Political Reactions and Calls for Independent Inquiry
Meanwhile, political reactions have intensified with fresh demands for independent investigations. Nationalist Congress Party leader Rohit Pawar called for the Aviation Minister to step down, alleging potential conflict of interest.
"The owner of VSR Aviation recently held his son's wedding in Jaipur, which was attended by a main leader of the TDP. The Aviation Minister belongs to that party," he stated. "If they can attend the wedding, the investigation may not proceed in the right direction."
Rohit Pawar further advocated for involvement of international agencies in the investigation to ensure comprehensive scrutiny.
NCP working President Praful Patel demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the crash, stating that while AAIB investigates technical matters, broader aspects need examination.
"After such a big accident involving such a big leader, we feel that information should be obtained from every aspect," Patel emphasized. "CBI is a reliable organization that can consider all facts and aspects."
Commitment to Transparent Process
The ministry has requested stakeholders to refrain from speculation and allow statutory investigation and regulatory processes to proceed according to established procedures. All investigative and regulatory actions continue with full transparency and professional integrity as authorities work to determine the causes of the tragic accident that claimed five lives.
