Cleared at 8:43 AM, Crashed at 8:44 AM
Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar’s Learjet 45 (VT-SSK), operated by Delhi-based VSR Ventures, received landing clearance at Baramati’s uncontrolled airfield, one minute before it burst into flames at 8:44 AM Wednesday, killing all five aboard.
Detailed ATC Exchange
The Civil Aviation Ministry detailed the sequence: Crew queried calm winds (confirmed) and 3,000m visibility in visual meteorological conditions. On final approach to runway 11, runway not in sight, pilots initiated go-around. Cleared again after reporting runway visible, but no readback given. ATC spotted flames at threshold; wreckage fell left of runway.
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Operator Under Spotlight
VSR Ventures, a non-scheduled operator with 17-aircraft fleet (eight Learjets), took its website offline post-crash. The 2010-manufactured jet’s air permit ran until 2028; pilots logged 15,000+ and 1,500 hours. DGCA’s February 2025 audit found no serious violations. Notably, another VSR Learjet (VT-DBL) crashed at Mumbai in September 2023, injuring passengers.
Investigation Launched
AAIB has assumed charge, with its chief reaching the crash site at Baramati. The mid-size business jet flew from Mumbai (250 km away). Baramati ATC is run by flying schools at this non-towered field.
Three-day state mourning declared; political leaders including PM Modi and Amit Shah condoled. This marks a shocking end to Pawar’s decades-long career.
