Surat Airport Connection Emerges in Fatal Baramati Aircraft Crash That Killed Ajit Pawar
The private aircraft that crashed at Baramati airport in Pune district, claiming the lives of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four other individuals on Wednesday, has been revealed to have a significant connection to Surat International Airport. Investigations show that the ill-fated plane operated multiple flights between Mumbai and Surat in the days leading up to the tragic incident.
Detailed Flight Movements Before the Crash
According to official sources at Surat International Airport, the Learjet 45 aircraft, registered as VT-SSK, was actively flying between Mumbai and Surat on January 25 and 26. The aircraft's last recorded movement at Surat airport occurred on January 26, operating as a non-scheduled flight. Surat International Airport Director S C Bhalse confirmed these details, noting that the airport lacks parking facilities for such aircraft.
The specific flight logs reveal a busy schedule:
- On January 25, the VT-SSK aircraft departed from Surat airport at 11:09 PM and landed at Mumbai Airport at the same time.
- On January 26, the same aircraft took off from Mumbai at 4:57 PM, arriving at Surat airport by 5:26 PM.
- Later that night, the aircraft departed from Surat at 11:46 PM and landed at Mumbai airport at 12:27 AM on January 27.
Airport authorities have stated that all standard landing and departure procedures were meticulously followed during these operations, with no reported irregularities at the time.
Aircraft Specifications and Operational Background
The crashed aircraft was identified as a Learjet 45 XR model, manufactured in the year 2010. It was operated by Mayfair Jets DWC LLC, functioning under the management of VSR Ventures Pvt Ltd. This particular model is designed to accommodate up to nine passengers, highlighting its use for private and corporate travel.
Surat's Context During the Flights
Interestingly, these flights coincided with Surat hosting the Indian Street Premier League cricket tournament, which featured eight competitive teams. The event was held at the Lalbhai Cricket stadium in Surat, drawing participants and spectators from across the country.
Sources indicate that on January 26, family members associated with the team owner of the Kolkata Tigers utilized the same VT-SSK aircraft for travel from Mumbai to Surat. After attending the tournament events, they reportedly returned to Mumbai before continuing their journey to Kolkata.
This connection underscores the aircraft's role in facilitating travel for high-profile events, adding a layer of context to its operational history prior to the devastating crash in Baramati.
