Ajit Pawar death: Probe advances in Baramati Learjet crash, data retrieved

Investigators have successfully retrieved critical flight data from the crashed business jet in Maharashtra, which led to the death of erstwhile Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, marking a key step forward in the probe into the January aviation accident that has drawn national attention.

In an update on Wednesday, the Ministry of Civil Aviation said the investigation into the Learjet 45 crash near Baramati is progressing strictly under global aviation norms and Indian accident-investigation rules.

The inquiry is being led by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau, which is conducting a technical, evidence-driven analysis of wreckage, maintenance history, operational records and component testing.


Authorities confirmed that the aircraft carried two independent flight recorders. The Digital Flight Data Recorder, built by L3 Communications, has already been successfully downloaded in New Delhi, providing investigators with detailed performance data from the flight.

However, the Cockpit Voice Recorder suffered thermal damage in the crash. Because it was manufactured by Honeywell, India has sought technical assistance from the country of manufacture in line with international civil aviation protocols set by International Civil Aviation Organization guidelines.

Operator under scrutiny

The aviation regulator, Directorate General of Civil Aviation, had already conducted 51 audits of non-scheduled operators in 2025, including multiple inspections of the aircraft’s operator, VSR Ventures. Officials said earlier audit findings were addressed and closed.

Following the crash, the government ordered a special audit of the company covering safety systems, maintenance practices, crew training, operational controls and flight recorder monitoring. That review, launched on February 4, is nearing completion. Authorities have also initiated phased special audits of other major non-scheduled operators and airports handling VIP and VVIP flights, signalling a wider safety sweep across the sector.