Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and Crew Perish in Baramati Plane Crash
New Delhi, January 28, 2026 – A tragic aviation accident claimed the life of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others when their chartered plane crashed during a landing attempt at Baramati Airport in Pune district. The crash occurred around 8:45 AM IST, prompting a thorough investigation by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and sending ripples through India's political sphere.
The Bombardier Learjet 45, with registration VT-SSK, was operated by Delhi-based VSR Aviation. The flight departed from Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport at approximately 8:10 AM, with Pawar heading to Baramati for public meetings in advance of the Zilla Parishad elections. Eyewitnesses reported that the plane deviated from the runway during a second landing attempt, crashed short of the threshold, and burst into flames with several explosions. Preliminary findings indicate that no emergency signal or 'Mayday' call was transmitted by the pilots before the crash. Investigations are ongoing, with low visibility due to fog being considered, although some reports indicate clear weather conditions at the time.
All five passengers on board were pronounced dead at the scene, with their remains transported to Baramati Hospital, where supporters and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) members gathered in mourning. The Maharashtra government declared a three-day state mourning period from January 28 to 30, with flags lowered to half-mast, closure of government offices and schools on the day of the incident, and suspension of all official entertainment events.
Victims of the Crash
The crash resulted in the deaths of notable political leader Ajit Pawar, along with the aircraft's crew and support staff. The victims are detailed as follows:
| Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Ajit Pawar | Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader, aged 66. Known for his grassroots efforts and significant governance contributions, he was en route for election-related activities. |
| Captain Sumit Kapoor | Pilot-in-Command from Delhi, boasting over 16,000 flight hours, with expertise in business jet operations. |
| Captain Shambhavi Pathak | First Officer and accomplished pilot, Pathak was a daughter of an Army officer and a well-regarded figure in aviation. |
| Vidip Jadhav | Personal Security Officer and member of the Mumbai Police's Head Constable rank. |
| Pinky Mali | Flight Attendant responsible for onboard services. |
Investigation and Aftermath
An expert team from the DGCA has been deployed to the crash location, with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau engaged in the examination of wreckage, flight data, and eyewitness accounts. VSR Aviation has maintained that the aircraft was in optimal condition and the crew well-trained, stressing the pilots' familiarity with charter operations. This incident marks the second accident involving a VSR-operated plane in recent years, following a non-fatal crash-landing in Mumbai in September 2023.
Condolences have been expressed from leaders across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed profound grief over Pawar's unexpected passing, recognizing it as a notable loss to public service. Union Home Minister Amit Shah commended Pawar's societal contributions, while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi referred to the event as "extremely heartbreaking." Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, a close associate of Pawar, termed it a personal loss and confirmed the state's mourning declarations. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has called for a Supreme Court-monitored probe to ensure comprehensive transparency.
Pawar's family, including his wife Sunetra Pawar, sister Supriya Sule, and sons Parth and Jay, traveled to Baramati, along with NCP leaders such as Praful Patel. The crash is regarded as one of Maharashtra's most severe aviation tragedies in recent history, highlighting the imperative for improved safety measures in charter flights.
Authorities have encouraged the public to avoid speculation as the investigation progresses. Further updates will be disseminated as new details become available.
