A routine political journey ended in tragedy on January 28, 2026, when a chartered Learjet 45 carrying Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar crashed near Baramati Airport in Pune district. All six people on board, including Ajit Pawar, his personal security officer, two pilots, and additional crew members, were killed in the accident, plunging Maharashtra into deep mourning.
The aircraft had departed from Mumbai around 8:00 am and was attempting to land at Baramati when it reportedly lost control during the final approach. Eyewitnesses said the jet burst into flames immediately after impact, followed by multiple explosions that were visible from a distance. Emergency teams rushed to the site, but there were no survivors.
Among the victims were Captain Shambhavi Pathak and Captain Sumit Kapoor, the two pilots operating the flight. VSR Aviation, which managed the chartered aircraft, confirmed their identities and described both as well-trained and highly experienced professionals.
Captain Shambhavi Pathak was serving as the Pilot-in-Command of the flight. The daughter of an Army officer, she had a strong academic and professional background in aviation. She studied at Air Force Bal Bharati School and later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Aeronautics, Aviation, and Aerospace Science and Technology from the University of Mumbai. She completed her pilot training at the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy and was known among colleagues for her discipline, technical precision, and calm demeanor in the cockpit.
Captain Sumit Kapoor, who also held the role of Pilot-in-Command, was a veteran aviator with decades of flying experience. Based in Delhi, he had logged more than 16,000 flight hours over his career, making him one of the most experienced pilots in the charter aviation sector. Aviation officials said he was especially respected for his command during complex take-offs and landings. His son is also a professional pilot, continuing the family’s association with aviation.
VSR Aviation senior official VK Singh expressed personal grief over the loss, calling Captain Kapoor a close friend and describing Captain Pathak as “like my child.” He added that both pilots were among the most reliable crew members in the company’s operations.
Along with Ajit Pawar and the pilots, the aircraft was also carrying the Deputy Chief Minister’s personal security officer and other crew members, all of whom died in the crash. Ajit Pawar, aged 66, was travelling to attend political meetings ahead of local body elections when the incident occurred.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has launched a comprehensive investigation into the crash. Officials are examining flight data, weather conditions, visibility, and possible technical or human factors that may have contributed to the accident. VSR Aviation stated that the aircraft was fully airworthy and maintained according to regulations, and that the crew was sufficiently experienced for the flight.
As the investigation continues, tributes continue to pour in for the lives lost. The deaths of Captain Shambhavi Pathak and Captain Sumit Kapoor have highlighted the human cost behind aviation tragedies—two professionals who dedicated their lives to flying and remained at the controls until their final moments.