Ajit Pawar Jet Crash: Cleared for Landing at 8:43 am, Down at 8:44 am

The aircraft carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was cleared for landing at 8:43 am on Wednesday and crashed just a minute later at 8:44 am, killing all five people on board, the civil aviation ministry said. The disclosure was based on the statement of the Air Traffic Control (ATC) official on duty at Baramati airport at the time of the incident.

According to the ministry, the mid-size business jet, a Bombardier Learjet 45, was on its final approach when it went down in flames near the runway. The aircraft had been granted landing clearance shortly before the crash, indicating that communication between the cockpit and ATC was active until moments before the accident.

The jet was operated by Delhi-based VSR Ventures Private Limited and was registered as VT-SSK. In the aftermath of the crash, the company reportedly took down its official website, though no explanation has been issued publicly regarding the move. Authorities have not linked this action to the cause of the accident.

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All five occupants on board were killed in the crash. Besides Ajit Pawar, the aircraft was carrying his personal security officer, an assistant, and two crew members. The impact and subsequent fire were severe, with visuals from the site showing the aircraft engulfed in flames shortly after hitting the ground.

Officials said a detailed investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the crash. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and other relevant agencies are expected to examine flight data, communication records, and technical aspects of the aircraft as part of the probe.

The timing details released by the government have intensified focus on the final moments of the flight. As Maharashtra and the wider political community mourn Ajit Pawar’s death, authorities have urged restraint and said conclusions should await the outcome of the official investigation.

Also Read: Ajit Pawar's Wife & family in Tears at Baramati After Plane Crash