Final Report on Ajit Pawar Plane Crash Due in January 2027
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) will submit its final report on the crash of a Learjet 45 aircraft that killed Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others in January 2027, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced on July 10, 2026.
Pawar, along with four other occupants, died when the aircraft crashed near Baramati Airport on January 28, 2026. The crash occurred shortly after takeoff, and the cause has been under investigation by the AAIB.
Details of the Crash
The Learjet 45, registered as VT-APW, was carrying Ajit Pawar, two pilots, and two security personnel. All five were declared dead at the scene. The aircraft was en route to Mumbai when it went down in a field approximately 2 kilometers from the Baramati Airport runway.
According to initial reports, the aircraft had just taken off when it experienced a technical malfunction. Witnesses reported seeing smoke trailing from the plane before it nosedived. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) grounded all Learjet 45 aircraft in India pending investigation.
Investigation Progress
Fadnavis stated that the AAIB has completed most of its analysis, including examination of the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder. “The final report will be submitted in January next year, and we will ensure all recommendations are implemented to prevent such tragedies,” he said.
The investigation has involved experts from the United States, as the Learjet 45 is manufactured by Bombardier. Preliminary findings suggested a possible engine failure, but the AAIB has not confirmed any cause.
Political and Public Reaction
The crash sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political landscape. Ajit Pawar was a key leader in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and served as Deputy Chief Minister. His death led to a reshuffle in the state cabinet.
Opposition leaders have demanded a thorough inquiry and compensation for the victims’ families. The state government announced an ex gratia of Rs 50 lakh to each family. Fadnavis assured that the report would be made public once submitted.
The AAIB’s final report is expected to provide clarity on the cause of the crash and recommend safety measures to avoid future incidents.
