Pune: Ajit Pawar Dies in Aircraft Crash During Landing at Baramati Airport
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Baramati, 28th January 2026: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar (65) died in a major aviation accident on Wednesday after the aircraft he was travelling in crashed while attempting to land at Baramati Airport. The plane, Learjet 45, had arrived from Mumbai for a scheduled visit when the mishap occurred.
According to preliminary information, the aircraft lost control during the landing attempt and crashed into an open field near the airport. Visuals from the site showed thick plumes of smoke rising as rescue teams rushed to the spot. The impact was severe, leaving the aircraft completely damaged.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said: “Ajit Pawar, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, was onboard along with two more personnel (one PSO and one attendant) and two crew members (PIC and FO). As per initial information, no person on board has survived the crash.”
Emergency and rescue teams, including fire tenders, police and medical staff, were deployed immediately after the crash. However, officials said the intensity of the impact left little chance of survival.
An investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the accident, including possible technical failure, weather conditions and pilot communication.
Further details are awaited as authorities continue verification and issue formal statements.
