Pune: IAF Deploys ATC Team at Baramati After Deputy CM Ajit Pawar Dies in Air Crash
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune/Baramati, 28th January 2026: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has taken over emergency air traffic control operations at Baramati Airport after Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was killed in a tragic plane crash during an attempted landing earlier today. Pawar and four others on board a chartered aircraft died on the spot, triggering massive security and administrative mobilisation ahead of a state funeral and visits by top politicians.
The crash occurred when a Learjet 45XR aircraft, flying from Mumbai to Baramati, Pawar’s home constituency in Pune district, failed to align with the runway during its final approach. Preliminary information suggests the pilot had attempted a second landing after a go-around, but the aircraft lost control and burst into flames on impact. The incident took place around 8.45 am today.
All five people on board were killed instantly. The victims include Ajit Pawar, his personal security officer Vidip Jadhav, the pilot, the co-pilot and one more crew member.
In the immediate aftermath, the Maharashtra government requested urgent assistance from the Indian Air Force due to Baramati Airport’s limited infrastructure. Responding swiftly, the IAF deployed Air Traffic Control (ATC) personnel and technical equipment from Air Force Station Lohgaon. The IAF team has now established emergency ATC services, communication systems and essential facilities in coordination with the district administration to ensure safe and smooth handling of air movements.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) said there was no mayday call from the cockpit. Officials indicated that poor visibility may have played a role, as the runway was reportedly not visible in the final moments before the crash. CCTV footage shows the aircraft turning into a massive fireball upon impact.
The aircraft was operated by Delhi-based VSR Ventures Pvt. Ltd. Investigators are examining possible technical failure, weather conditions and human error. A detailed probe has been ordered by aviation authorities.
The tragedy has plunged Maharashtra into deep mourning. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences on X, calling Pawar a dedicated leader and saying the nation has lost a seasoned public figure. The state government has declared three days of state mourning.
National flags will fly at half-mast and all official entertainment programmes have been cancelled.
Ajit Pawar, a six-time Deputy Chief Minister and a veteran of Maharashtra politics, will be accorded a state funeral in Baramati on Thursday at 11 am. Several senior leaders, including Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, are expected to attend.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders have demanded a thorough and transparent investigation into the crash. Some have called for an independent or court-monitored probe to rule out any foul play.
As Maharashtra mourns, attention now turns to the aviation inquiry and the political impact on the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the Pawar family.
Authorities have urged people to avoid speculation and to rely only on verified information as the investigation progresses.
