Indian Air Force Rushes Emergency ATC Support to Baramati Following Fatal Aircraft Crash
In a swift response to an urgent request from the Maharashtra government, the Indian Air Force (IAF) deployed a specialized team of Air Traffic Control (ATC) personnel along with critical technical equipment to Baramati Airport on Wednesday. The team was dispatched from Air Force Station Lohegaon to establish emergency operations at the airport, which was the site of a tragic crash earlier in the day.
Emergency Operations Established for Safe Air Traffic Management
The IAF team quickly set up essential ATC facilities, including communication systems, in coordination with local authorities. This move was aimed at ensuring safe and efficient air traffic management at the airport following the disruption caused by the accident. In a post on social media platform X, the IAF confirmed that a dedicated team of Air Warriors had been sent to provide basic Air Traffic Control and Meteorological services.
"In response to the civic authorities’ urgent request after the tragic aircraft crash at Baramati Airport, the Indian Air Force has swiftly deployed a dedicated team of Air Warriors," the IAF stated. "They are providing essential basic Air Traffic Control (ATC) and Meteorological services to support safe air operations from the site." The IAF emphasized that this deployment reflects its commitment to national service during emergencies.
Background: Fatal Crash Claims Maharashtra Deputy CM and Four Others
The emergency deployment comes after a chartered aircraft crash-landed at Baramati airport earlier on Wednesday, resulting in the death of Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar and four other individuals. Pawar, 66, was traveling to Baramati to campaign for the Zilla Panchayat elections when the accident occurred at approximately 8:48 am near the runway threshold.
All five people on board perished in the crash, including Pawar, his personal security officer, a flight attendant, and two pilots. The incident has prompted immediate investigations by aviation authorities to determine the cause.
Investigation Underway with Multiple Agencies Involved
As part of the probe, officials from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) visited the office of VSR Ventures Private Limited, the operator of the ill-fated aircraft. The investigation team collected boxes of documents for detailed examination, focusing on key records such as airframe and engine logbooks, work orders, onboard documents, and major inspection records.
Investigators have also requested records from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) related to the aircraft and its crew. Additional evidence being gathered includes radar data, CCTV footage, ATC recordings, and hotline communications to facilitate a comprehensive analysis of the crash.
Both the DGCA and AAIB have dispatched separate teams to the crash site to investigate the circumstances leading to the accident. The collaborative efforts aim to uncover the factors behind this tragic event and enhance aviation safety measures.
The IAF's prompt action in deploying ATC support underscores the critical role of military assistance in civilian emergencies, ensuring that air operations can resume safely while investigations continue.
