The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has submitted its preliminary report on the plane crash near Baramati, which claimed the lives of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others on January 28. The report emphasizes that the information provided is based on initial factual data and evidence collected during the early stages of the investigation, cautioning against drawing conclusions from it.
According to the report, the investigation’s primary goal, as per international aviation rules, is to prevent future accidents rather than assign blame or liability. It highlights that the investigation process will remain distinct from any legal proceedings aimed at assigning fault. The report stresses that misinterpretations could arise if the document is used for purposes other than enhancing aviation safety.
Both pilots involved in the crash were familiar with the Baramati airfield’s topography, having flown there previously. The report mentions that the pilots had experience operating VIP and other flights to uncontrolled airfields, including Baramati. Additionally, it notes that the pre-flight breath analyser tests for both pilots yielded satisfactory results.
The report reveals that on the day of the accident, the visibility at Baramati airport was below the required minimum for visual flight rules (VFR), raising safety concerns. It also includes interim safety recommendations, urging enhanced regulatory oversight at smaller airfields, a review of licensing procedures, and immediate upgrades to landing and meteorological infrastructure for improved safety measures.
The investigation is ongoing, with the Cockpit Voice Recorder data yet to be analyzed with the assistance of the US National Transportation Safety Board. The report pledges a comprehensive examination of all aspects related to the accident to uncover the facts, root causes, and contributing factors. Moreover, it has proposed several interim safety measures for the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to implement for enhanced aviation safety.
