New Delhi, February 28: The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has released its preliminary report on the tragic Baramati plane crash that claimed the lives of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others on January 28. This initial document outlines early findings from the ongoing probe, emphasizing that all details are provisional and subject to change as the investigation deepens.
The report underscores that investigations under ICAO Annex 13 and India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Rules, 2025, aim solely to prevent future incidents, not to assign blame. Both pilots were experienced, familiar with Baramati airfield’s layout from prior visits, and had logged numerous VIP flights on uncontrolled fields like this one.
Pre-flight breathalyzer tests conducted by a paramedic on the pilots returned negative results, as confirmed by video footage and breath analyzer slips. However, visibility at Baramati airport on the crash day was around 3,000 meters—well below the 5,000-meter minimum required for VFR operations.
AAIB’s interim safety recommendations call for stricter oversight of small airfields, a review of their licensing, and urgent upgrades to landing and weather infrastructure. The probe continues, with cockpit voice recorder data yet to be downloaded, assisted by the US National Transportation Safety Board.
This crash has sparked urgent calls for aviation safety reforms, particularly for regional airstrips handling high-profile flights. As more evidence emerges, the final report will provide clearer insights into preventing such devastating losses.