Tragic Crash: Ajit Pawar Dies in Learjet 45XR Accident Near Baramati
The events of January 28, 2026, resulted in Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar dying when his Learjet 45XR (VT-SSK) crashed during an emergency landing attempt near Baramati airport. The flight had taken off from Mumbai at 8:00 AM but encountered its fatal accident 45 minutes after departure. The news of the tragedy has brought mourning to Baramati and Maharashtra, as residents of both areas cope with the sudden passing. The political sphere experienced an unexpected landing, which brought major losses to one important politician.
Indian media reporting the crash of a business jet this morning has claimed the life of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and 4 others. The aircraft was attempting a second approach to Baramati Airport when it crashed. https://t.co/0RKiD9sZVU pic.twitter.com/1kcoWgc3I1
— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) January 28, 2026
The Type Of Jet Ajit Pawar Was Travelling In, ‘Learjet 45XR (VT-SSK)’: Flight Details
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Aircraft Type: Learjet 45XR (business jet)
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Registration: VT-SSK
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Operator: VSR Ventures (Delhi-based charter company)
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Capacity: Typically seats 8 passengers and 2 crew members
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Purpose of Flight: Transporting Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and aides
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Takeoff Location: Mumbai
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Takeoff Time: Approximately 8:00 AM, January 28, 2026
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Crash Location: Near Baramati airport during an emergency landing attempt
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Time of Crash: Around 8:45 AM
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Casualties: 5, including Ajit Pawar, PSO, flight attendant, pilot-in-command, and first officer
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Investigation: Aircraft experts examining technical failures and weather factors
About ‘Learjet 45XR (VT-SSK)
The Learjet 45XR (VT-SSK) operates as a business jet which combines its aerodynamic design with mid-size dimensions to deliver both speedy performance and a comfortable flight experience. The aircraft operates with eight passengers and two crew members while providing advanced avionics and a comfortable operating experience. The aircraft crashed near Baramati airport during its emergency landing attempt after taking off from Mumbai, which turned VT-SSK into a news story on January 28, 2026. The aircraft carried the pilot and co-pilot together with a flight attendant, a security officer, and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. The jet experienced an unexpected mechanical failure, which created significant doubts about its operation while the investigation will determine the actual reasons behind the incident.
Investigation Underway
The investigation aims to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the emergency landing attempt and crash. Officials are examining aircraft systems, pilot communications, and possible environmental factors.
With The Tragedy of Ajit Pawar, Political Shockwaves Across Maharashtra: A Somber Day in Baramati
Maharashtra experienced a tragic event on January 28, 2026, when Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar passed away in a Learjet 45XR crash that occurred during an emergency landing attempt near Baramati airport. The sudden passing of one of the most powerful NCP leaders in the state has shocked Maharashtra politics, as his death created a leaderless situation and raised doubts about future political developments.
Everyone who knew Ajit, including his coworkers, adversaries, and the general public, now experiences sadness as they recall his 40 years of dedication to public service and his contributions to government development.
The residents of Baramati and the broader political community face a deeply saddening day, marking a significant moment in the state’s history. The incident demonstrates that even seasoned pilots and aircraft face unpredictable dangers that threaten their safety.
People from all over India sent tributes to honor the deceased political leader, whose unexpected passing has created both emotional and political emptiness for the nation.
Aishwarya is a journalism graduate with over three years of experience thriving in the buzzing corporate media world. She’s got a knack for decoding business news, tracking the twists and turns of the stock market, covering the masala of the entertainment world, and sometimes her stories come with just the right sprinkle of political commentary. She has worked with several organizations, interned at ZEE and gained professional skills at TV9 and News24, And now is learning and writing at NewsX, she’s no stranger to the newsroom hustle. Her storytelling style is fast-paced, creative, and perfectly tailored to connect with both the platform and its audience. Moto: Approaching every story from the reader’s point of view, backing up her insights with solid facts.
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