New Delhi’s aviation regulator has taken decisive action following the tragic Learjet 45 crash in Baramati, Maharashtra. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has grounded four aircraft from VSR Ventures Private Limited’s fleet, citing multiple safety violations uncovered during a special audit.
The crash on January 28, which claimed the life of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, prompted an immediate investigation. A multi-disciplinary team scrutinized VSR Ventures’ operations, revealing serious lapses in airworthiness, safety protocols, and flight procedures. The affected planes—VT-VRA, VT-VRS, VT-VRV, and VT-TRI, all Learjet 40/45 models—have been ordered grounded until corrective measures restore compliance.
DGCA’s statement emphasized repeated non-compliance with approved maintenance and operational standards. The regulator has issued deficiency reports, demanding root cause analysis for further assessment. This move underscores India’s commitment to aviation safety amid growing concerns over private operators.
Political ripples followed the incident. Ajit Pawar’s nephew, NCP-SP MLA Rohit Pawar, accused the aircraft’s owning firm of flouting norms and highlighted technical irregularities. He held multiple press briefings, raising suspicions of foul play.
Aviation Minister Murlidhar Mohol announced the preliminary crash report would be released by February 28. The Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is conducting a thorough probe, including wreckage analysis, record reviews, and lab tests on components.
Both flight recorders were recovered: the Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR) successfully downloaded, while the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), damaged by heat, awaits technical aid from manufacturer Honeywell per ICAO norms.
In 2025, DGCA audited 51 non-scheduled operators, with VSR Ventures under repeated surveillance for flight safety, duty limits, maintenance, and facilities. Post-crash, a comprehensive review of regulatory compliance, crew training, and safety systems was ordered.
This grounding signals stricter oversight, ensuring passenger and crew safety remains paramount in India’s skies.