Ajit Pawar plane crash: Aviation ministry says crucial data retrieved, report to be filed within 30 days

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

• Key flight data recovered from crashed Learjet 45
• Cockpit Voice Recorder damaged; India seeks help from Honeywell
• Special audits of operators and airports launched after the crash

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The Ministry of Civil Aviation on Thursday announced that investigators have retrieved crucial flight data from the crashed business jet that claimed the life of former Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar and four others near Baramati in Maharashtra.

In a detailed release, the ministry reiterated that the investigation into the Learjet 45 (VT-SSK) accident is being conducted by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) strictly in accordance with global aircraft safety standards.

"The AAIB’s investigation is technical and evidence-based, involving systematic examination of wreckage, operational and maintenance records and laboratory testing of components where required. A Preliminary Report will be issued within 30 days of the occurrence, as per ICAO norms, and the Final Report will follow in due course," the release read.

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 Organization guidelines.

Jay Pawar on Wednesday demanded a “fair, thorough” and transparent investigation into the plane crash that claimed the life of his father, former Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, in Baramati on January 28.

In an Instagram story posted on February 18, Jay Pawar questioned the circumstances surrounding the incident, sought accountability and called for action against the aircraft operator. “Black boxes are not easily destroyed in a plane crash; The people of Maharashtra have the right to know the complete, transparent and undisputed truth of this heart-wrenching tragedy. VSR should be banned from flying immediately, and a thorough and fair investigation into possible serious malpractices in the maintenance of their aircraft should be conducted,” he wrote. He also shared an emotional message, saying, “Miss you Dad.”

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.