The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) released its first findings Saturday on the January 28 Baramati aviation disaster that killed Ajit Pawar and four others. This preliminary report compiles initial evidence but remains subject to change as the inquiry progresses. It’s clear: the goal is aviation safety enhancement, not finger-pointing, per international and national standards.
Pilots knew the terrain well, with prior visits to Baramati and a track record of VIP missions at non-towered fields. Crucially, their pre-flight breath tests were negative, verified through onboard medical checks, videos, and documentation.
Weather played a role: visibility dipped to 3,000 meters, short of VFR thresholds. AAIB urges tighter controls on small-field ops, license audits, and rapid improvements in landing aids and met services.
Key data from the cockpit voice recorder awaits extraction with NTSB help. As families mourn and the nation reflects, this report spotlights vulnerabilities in regional aviation, pushing for reforms to avert repeats.
Stakeholders from regulators to operators must act swiftly on these interim suggestions, ensuring India’s skies remain safe for all.