The Air Accidents Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has submitted a preliminary report into the plane crash that took place in Baramati on January 28, in which five people, including Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, were killed. This report is based on initial facts and evidence and is subject to change.
The purpose of the investigation under ICAO standards and Indian rules is only to prevent future accidents, and not to assign blame. Both the pilots had previously landed at Baramati airfield and were aware of its geographical location. He had extensive experience in VIP flights and uncontrolled airstrips.
Pre-flight breath analyzer tests conducted by the paramedic on board the aircraft came back negative, which was confirmed by the video and slip. However, visibility on the day of the accident was only 3,000 metres, less than the 5,000 meters required for VFR.
The AAIB has recommended stricter monitoring, license review and immediate improvements in landing-weather facilities at smaller airports. The investigation is ongoing; The cockpit voice recorder is pending analysis with the help of the US NTSB.
The report sparks debate on regional aviation security, leading to calls for comprehensive reforms.
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