The sudden death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash has sent shockwaves across India’s political landscape. What began as a routine short-haul flight from Mumbai to Baramati ended in one of the most tragic aviation disasters involving a senior political leader in recent memory.
As details continue to emerge, grief, disbelief, and political questions now surround the devastating crash that claimed five lives, including that of Ajit Pawar, a towering political figure and the backbone of Maharashtra politics for over three decades.
This article breaks down everything we know so far, from the timeline of the crash, DGCA’s findings, aircraft details, political reactions, to the emotional scenes in Baramati, the town that shaped Pawar’s political destiny and ultimately witnessed his final moments.
What Happened on the Morning of the Ajit Pawar Plane Crash?
On Wednesday morning, at approximately 8:44 AM, a Learjet 45XR business jet, operating a Mumbai-Baramati charter flight, crashed while attempting to land at Baramati airfield.
The aircraft was carrying five people:
- Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister
- Two pilots (crew members)
- Three passengers
All five occupants lost their lives instantly, according to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). There were no survivors.
Ajit Pawar Plane Crash Live Updates: What DGCA Has Confirmed So Far
One of the most striking revelations from the DGCA investigation is that no emergency signal or Mayday call was issued by the pilots before the crash.
According to preliminary findings, the pilots failed to visually locate the runway during their first landing attempt and carried out a go-around, which is a standard aviation manoeuvre when landing conditions are unsafe; however, during the second approach, the aircraft crashed before touchdown, and DGCA officials confirmed that the pilots did not communicate any distress to air traffic control at any point.
This raises critical questions about weather visibility, runway infrastructure, altitude judgment during descent, and human factors in cockpit decision-making. A full technical investigation is now underway.
Who Were the Pilots in Deputy CM Ajit Pawar’s Last Flight?
The Learjet 45XR was being operated by a professional flight crew under a licensed non-scheduled aircraft operator.
While the DGCA has not yet publicly released the detailed profiles of the two pilots, officials have confirmed that both pilots were qualified to operate the Learjet 45 series. There was no Mayday or emergency distress call, and standard landing procedures were followed until visibility issues arose.
The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) and Flight Data Recorder (FDR) have been recovered and are expected to provide crucial insights into pilot communication, decision-making during the final moments, and situational awareness inside the cockpit.
Further details will be shared once families are formally notified and the investigation progresses.
All You Need to Know About the Aircraft That Crashed in Baramati
The aircraft involved in the tragic crash was a Learjet 45XR, a mid-size business jet widely used for VIP and charter operations across India.
Key Specifications of the Learjet 45XR
- Manufacturer: Bombardier Aerospace
- Production Years: 1998-2009
- Owner: VSR Ventures Pvt. Ltd. (Delhi-based operator)
- Registration Number: VT-SSK
- Passenger Capacity: Up to 8
- Range: 2,000-2,235 nautical miles
- Cruising Speed: Mach 0.78-0.81
- Engines: Two Honeywell TFE731
- Maximum Altitude: 51,000 feet
- Wingspan: 47 feet
- Maximum Take-Off Weight: Approx. 9,752 kg
The Learjet 45 is known for speed and efficiency, short-to-medium haul reliability, and comfortable VIP cabin design. There were no prior safety red flags reported for this specific aircraft.
Who Were the Victims on Board the Crashed Aircraft?
Authorities have officially identified all five victims of the crash:
- Ajit Pawar - Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister
- Vidip Jadhav
- Pinky Mali
- Sumit Kapoor
- Shambhavi Pathak
The identities of the pilots will be formally detailed once procedural clearances are completed.
The Town That Made Ajit Pawar Witnesses His Death
Few political stories in India are as deeply rooted in geography as Ajit Pawar’s relationship with Baramati. Baramati was not just a constituency. It was a legacy, a power base, and a political laboratory.
Since 1967, Baramati has remained under the Pawar family’s influence, first under Sharad Pawar, and then under Ajit Pawar from 1991 onwards. On Wednesday, that same land bore witness to his death. The symbolism is painful. The irony is historic.
As news of the crash spread, hundreds of NCP workers, supporters, and locals gathered outside a Baramati hospital. Eyewitnesses described tearful chants of 'Dada, Dada,' people collapsing in grief, supporters refusing to believe the news, and elderly residents recalling decades of Pawar leadership. For many in Baramati, Ajit Pawar was not just a politician; he was family.
Political Reactions Pour In After Ajit Pawar Plane Crash
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Cancels Goa Visit
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann cancelled his scheduled Goa tour as a mark of respect.
'The news of the tragic demise of Maharashtra Dy CM Shri Ajit Pawar is sad and shocking. Our heartfelt condolences to the families of all victims.'
Mamata Banerjee Calls for Supreme Court-Monitored Probe
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee hinted at a possible conspiracy and demanded a Supreme Court-monitored investigation, citing Ajit Pawar’s recent political movements.
Three-Day Mourning Declared in Maharashtra
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the cancellation of all government programs, a statewide public holiday, and three days of official mourning.
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde and CM Fadnavis departed for Baramati shortly after the announcement.
Key Questions Investigators Are Examining
Despite clear skies and no immediate technical warning, the crash raises serious questions. Investigators are examining why the runway could not be spotted, why no distress call was issued, whether Baramati airfield lacked advanced landing aids, and whether human error played a role.
Authorities are analysing CVR and FDR data, ATC communication, aircraft maintenance records, and pilot decision-making patterns.
Political Journey of Ajit Pawar
Ajit Pawar’s journey spanned Congress roots, the formation of the NCP, coalition politics, and administrative dominance. He was known for decisive leadership, grassroots influence, and a strong grip over Maharashtra’s cooperative sector. His passing leaves a political vacuum that will reshape state politics.
What Happens Next After the Ajit Pawar Plane Crash?
Expected developments include DGCA’s final report, safety recommendations, state funeral proceedings, and political recalibrations. The crash may influence future VIP aviation protocols, charter flight safety rules, and small-airfield landing norms. Ajit Pawar’s death is not just a political loss; it is a human tragedy.
It reminds us that power offers no immunity, life can change in seconds, and history sometimes ends mid-flight. Baramati will remember him forever. Maharashtra mourns. India watches.
Also Read: Ajit Pawar Plane Crash: Who Makes Learjet 45 and What Is Its Price?
