The aircraft involved in the recent incident involving Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has been identified as a Learjet 45, a small business jet commonly utilized for VIP and charter travel. This twin-engine aircraft, manufactured by Bombardier under the Learjet brand, first entered service in 1998 and has since become a popular choice for business leaders and politicians due to its efficiency in saving travel time.
Key Specifications and Design of the Learjet 45
The Learjet 45 is designed primarily for short to medium-distance journeys, with a seating capacity that typically accommodates six to eight passengers, depending on the interior configuration. The cabin is often arranged in a club seating layout, featuring two rows of facing seats with a small aisle in between. Some variants may include additional seating options such as a side-facing seat or a small sofa. At the rear of the cabin, there is a compact refreshment area and an enclosed toilet, enhancing comfort during flights.
Performance and Operational Advantages
This aircraft is renowned for its speed and comfort, capable of flying at approximately 800 to 850 kilometers per hour with a range of nearly 3,000 kilometers. This allows for nonstop travel between many major Indian cities. A significant advantage of the Learjet 45 is its ability to operate from smaller airports and shorter runways compared to larger commercial planes, making it ideal for political tours and urgent travel needs where leaders must visit multiple locations within a limited timeframe.
Registration and Ownership Details
In India, aircraft like the Learjet 45 are registered with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, each assigned a unique registration number starting with the letters VT. The specific aircraft involved in this incident bears the registration number VT-SSK-LJ45 and is registered under VSR Ventures Pvt Ltd, a Delhi-based non-scheduled operator. This highlights the regulatory framework governing such private and charter flights in the country.
Safety and Maintenance Considerations
The Learjet 45 has been in use globally for over two decades and is generally considered reliable when properly maintained. However, like all aircraft, it must adhere to strict safety procedures during takeoff and landing, and its operations can be affected by weather conditions and runway quality. The aircraft is typically flown by two pilots and may include a cabin attendant on longer flights to ensure passenger safety and comfort.
This incident underscores the importance of rigorous maintenance and adherence to safety protocols in aviation, especially for aircraft used in high-profile and time-sensitive travel scenarios.
