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DGCA Nears Completion of Special Audit in Ajit Pawar Plane Crash Probe

The Ministry of Civil Aviation announced that the special safety audit of VSR Ventures, operator of the crashed Learjet, is nearing completion. The DGCA has been directed to conduct a comprehensive review of the operator's regulatory compliance and safety management systems. Simultaneously, the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is conducting a technical investigation, having successfully downloaded the Digital Flight Data Recorder. The Ministry also stated it has instructed phased special audits of other non-scheduled operators involved in VIP flights.

Key Points: Ajit Pawar Plane Crash: VSR Ventures Audit Nears Completion

  • Special audit of VSR Ventures nears completion
  • DGCA to review operator's compliance and safety systems
  • AAIB investigating crash with downloaded DFDR data
  • Ministry orders phased audits of other VIP operators
2 min read

Ajit Pawar's plane crash: Special audit of VSR Ventures nears completion, says Civil Aviation Ministry

Civil Aviation Ministry updates on special safety audit of VSR Ventures and AAIB investigation into the Learjet crash involving Ajit Pawar.

"The findings will be reviewed, and action will be taken in accordance with the DGCA's Enforcement Policy - Civil Aviation Ministry"

Baramati Februar, y 19

The Ministry of Civil Aviation on Thursday provided an update on the investigation into the Ajit Pawar plane crash, stating that the special safety audit of VSR Ventures is now nearing completion.

The audit, which commenced on February 4, is being conducted by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) team. The findings will be reviewed, and action will be taken in accordance with the DGCA's Enforcement Policy and Procedures Manual.

According to the Ministry, the DGCA has been directed to conduct a comprehensive review of the operator's regulatory compliance, operational control systems, maintenance practices, crew training standards, and Safety Management Systems (SMS), as well as CVR/FDR monitoring protocols.

Furthermore, the Ministry has instructed the DGCA to carry out phased special audits of other major non-scheduled operators (NSOPs) and aerodromes engaged in VIP/VVIP operations. Appropriate enforcement action will be initiated wherever safety lapses are identified.

Highlighting past oversight, the Aviation Ministry mentioned that during 2025, the DGCA conducted 51 regulatory audits of non-scheduled operators. Specifically, multiple surveillances of M/s VSR Ventures were performed, covering flight safety, Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL), and maintenance compliance (CAR M and CAR 145).

The Ministry noted that all previous surveillance findings had been addressed and closed before the incident.

As for the investigation, the ministry reiterated that the investigation into the Learjet 45 (VT-SSK) accident at Baramati on January 28 is being conducted by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) strictly in accordance with the Aircraft Rules, 2025, and the Standards and Recommended Practices contained in ICAO Annexe 13.

According to the ministry, the aircraft was equipped with two independent flight recorders. The Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR), manufactured by L3 Communications, has been successfully downloaded at AAIB's facility in Delhi. The Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) sustained thermal damage. As it is manufactured by Honeywell, technical assistance has been sought from the State of Design/Manufacture, in line with para 5.7 and attachment D of ICAO Annexe 13.

The Civil Aviation Ministry further mentioned that the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau's investigation is technical and evidence-based, involving systematic examination of wreckage, operational and maintenance records and laboratory testing of components where required.

A Preliminary Report will be issued within 30 days of the occurrence, as per ICAO norms, and the Final Report will follow in due course.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
This is a step in the right direction. Phased audits for all VIP operators are crucial. We cannot have different safety standards for common people and VIPs. Every life is precious. 🙏
A
Arjun K
The technical details about the CVR and DFDR are reassuring. It shows a proper, methodical investigation is underway. Let's wait for the preliminary report. Jumping to conclusions helps no one.
S
Sarah B
As someone who flies frequently for work within India, this is concerning. 51 audits in a year sounds like a lot, but if they don't prevent accidents, what's the point? The focus should be on quality and surprise checks, not scheduled box-ticking.
V
Vikram M
Finally! A clear timeline - preliminary report in 30 days. Often these investigations drag on for years. Hope they stick to it. The families deserve answers, and the industry needs corrective measures ASAP.
K
Kavya N
The mention of seeking help from Honeywell (State of Design) is important. Shows we are following international protocols. Aviation safety is global. We must learn from this, implement changes, and ensure it never repeats. #SafetyFirst

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