Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others were killed on Wednesday morning when a Bombardier Learjet 45 business jet crash-landed at Baramati airport. The aircraft, operating as a private charter under VSR Ventures, went down during its final approach after departing Mumbai earlier in the day.

Authorities said the jet “crash-landed at Baramati” and confirmed that “no person on board has survived the crash.” By the time local responders reached the runway area, the aircraft had been torn apart and engulfed in flames, leaving no survivors.

What we know about the aircraft

The jet involved was a Bombardier Learjet 45XR, registered as VT-SSK. Built in 2010, the twin-engine, super-light business aircraft is recognised for its speed, high-altitude efficiency and suitability for short to medium sectors – including operations to regional airports such as Baramati.

VSR Ventures Private Limited, one of India’s largest non-scheduled airline operators, managed and operated this aircraft. The company, founded by VK Singh, runs a wide fleet including the Learjet 45XR, Beechcraft Super King Air B200 and Agusta 109 helicopters. It is headquartered in Mahipalpur, New Delhi, and provides charter flights, helicopter services, medical evacuations and consultancy.

The jet is based at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (VIDP) and typically accommodates up to nine passengers. It has a wingspan of 47 feet and an approximate maximum take-off weight of 9,752 kg.

Also read: Ajit Pawar no more: A look back at India’s high-profile aviation deaths

Crash sequence and initial findings

According to NDTV, preliminary observations from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) indicate that the aircraft experienced severe technical issues during its approach at roughly 8:45 am. The pilots reportedly struggled to stabilise the jet before it hit the ground and burst into flames.

The DGCA said: “As per initial information, all five persons onboard the aircraft have succumbed to the injuries sustained in the crash,” confirming the loss of all occupants. The agency will now begin analysing the wreckage, examining flight data and cockpit recordings, and reviewing crew communications and aircraft systems.

According to FlightRadar data, the aircraft was on its second attempt to land at Baramati Airport when it went down. Those killed alongside Pawar included both pilots and two other occupants – an onboard attendant and his personal security officer.

A source told PTI that the aircraft pilot had mentioned about poor visibility near the runway, before the aircraft attempted the landing.

Occupants and crew

There were five people on board:

  • Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar
  • Pilot Capt. Sumit Kapur
  • Co-pilot Capt. Shambhavi Pathak
  • Security staff Vidhit Jadhav
  • Pinki Mali

They were travelling from Mumbai to Baramati, where Pawar was scheduled to attend a series of political events and public rallies ahead of local body polls, according to PTI.

Also read: Beyond politics: How Ajit Pawar’s death shifts mantle to Sunetra, Parth

Flight and accident details (DGCA Occurrence Report)

  • Accident Date: 28.01.2026
  • Operator: VSR
  • Aircraft Type: Learjet 45
  • Registration: VT-SSK
  • Route: Mumbai to Baramati
  • Take-off: 8 am
  • Crash Time: 8:45 am
  • Location: Baramati Airport, Pune district
  • Pilots: Capt Sahil Madan (PIC), Capt Yash (FO)

Political shock following Pawar’s death

Pawar’s death has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political establishment. As one of the state’s most seasoned leaders, he served a record six terms as Deputy Chief Minister across successive governments, including those led by Prithviraj Chavan, Devendra Fadnavis, Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde.

His political journey began in 1982 with involvement in a cooperative sugar factory, eventually leading to roles in Parliament and the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, where he won seven terms from Baramati. Pawar leaves behind his wife Sunetra and sons Jay and Parth.