Ajit Pawar death: Autopsies of pilots completed after Baramati plane crash, bodies handed over to kin

Pic/AFP

Post-mortem examinations of the two pilots who were operating the chartered aircraft that met with a fatal accident at Baramati airport have been completed, and their bodies have been released to their families for final rites, reported news agency PTI.

The autopsies of pilot Captain Sumit Kapoor and co-pilot Captain Shambhavi Pathak were carried out at the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Government Medical College in Baramati. Hospital authorities said the mortal remains were handed over to family members after the procedures, reported PTI.

Five killed as aircraft crash-lands near runway threshold

The aircraft, which was flying from Mumbai to Baramati, crash-landed near the runway threshold at around 8.45 am on Wednesday, killing all five people on board. Among those who lost their lives was Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, along with his personal security officer, a flight attendant and the two pilots.

DGCA confirms five occupants; cause of crash under probe

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the jet was carrying five occupants when it met with an accident during its landing attempt at Baramati airport. Officials said investigations are underway to determine the precise cause of the crash, reported PTI.

IAF deploys ATC team, equipment to support emergency operations

Meanwhile, acting on an urgent request from the Maharashtra government, the Indian Air Force deployed a team of Air Traffic Control personnel along with critical technical equipment from Air Force Station Lohegaon to Baramati. Defence officials said the team helped set up emergency ATC services, including communication and operational support, in coordination with the local administration.

AAIB collects records from aircraft operator VSR Ventures

As part of the ongoing investigation, officials from the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) visited the office of VSR Ventures Private Limited, the operator of the aircraft involved in the crash. Investigators were seen collecting multiple boxes of documents from the premises.

These included airframe and engine logbooks, work orders, onboard documentation and major inspection records related to the aircraft. The probe team has also sought additional records from the DGCA concerning both the aircraft and its crew. Officials said radar data, CCTV footage, air traffic control recordings and hotline communications will be analysed as part of the detailed inquiry.

(With inputs from PTI)