In a shocking and tragic turn of events on 28 January 2026, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was killed when the charter aircraft he was travelling in crashed while attempting to land near Baramati Airport in the Pune district of Maharashtra, India.
The Learjet 45XR aircraft, operated by VSR Aviation, was en route from Mumbai to Baramati when it veered off the runway during an attempted emergency landing and caught fire. All five people on board, including Pawar, his security personnel, and the flight crew, were declared dead at the scene by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Who Was Ajit Pawar?
Ajit Anantrao Pawar, 66, was one of Maharashtra’s most senior and influential politicians. A veteran leader from a prominent political family, Pawar served multiple terms as the state’s Deputy Chief Minister and held key portfolios including finance, water resources, and rural development. He was widely recognized for his deep involvement in Maharashtra’s cooperative sector and state budget processes.
Circumstances of the Crash
According to aviation authorities, the business jet experienced difficulties while attempting a second approach to the Baramati runway before it crashed and exploded. Emergency responders reported the wreckage was engulfed in flames, making rescue efforts futile.
The DGCA and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) have launched an inquiry to determine the exact causes of the crash.
National Reaction
The crash has sent shockwaves across India, with leaders from various political parties expressing deep sorrow. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu offered condolences, highlighting Pawar’s long public service and contributions to Maharashtra’s development. State governments, including Maharashtra’s, declared periods of mourning and lowered flags to honor his memory.
Family members and political colleagues remembered Pawar as a dedicated public servant whose sudden death marks a significant loss for Indian politics.
FAQs
- Who was Ajit Pawar?
Ajit Pawar was the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and a veteran Indian politician known for his leadership roles in state governance and the cooperative sector. - What happened in the plane crash?
Ajit Pawar’s chartered Learjet 45 aircraft crashed while attempting to land at Baramati Airport after departing from Mumbai, killing all on board. - Were there any survivors?
No; all passengers and crew aboard the flight were declared dead at the crash site. - Is there an ongoing investigation?
Yes. India’s aviation authorities have begun an official investigation to determine the cause of the accident.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the latest available news reports from verified sources. Details may evolve as official investigations continue, and updates should be sought from reliable news outlets.
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