The investigation into the Learjet 45 (VT-SSK) accident at Baramati on January 28, 2026, is progressing under strict international and domestic aviation safety protocols, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) said on Wednesday. The probe is being conducted by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) in accordance with the Aircraft (Investigation of Accidents and Incidents) Rules, 2025, and ICAO Annex 13 standards.
Flight Recorders Under Examination
The Learjet 45 was equipped with two independent flight recorders — a Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR) and a Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR). The DFDR, manufactured by L3 Communications, has been successfully downloaded at the AAIB’s laboratory facility in New Delhi.
Officials confirmed that data extraction from the DFDR marks a crucial step in reconstructing the aircraft’s final moments. The recorder captures critical flight parameters, including altitude, speed, engine performance, and control inputs.
The CVR, however, sustained thermal damage due to post-impact conditions. As the device was manufactured by Honeywell, India has sought technical assistance from the State of Design and Manufacture in line with Paragraph 5.7 and Attachment D of ICAO Annex 13.
Investigation Process and Timeline
The AAIB’s inquiry is described as technical and evidence-based, involving detailed examination of the wreckage, operational records, maintenance logs, and laboratory testing of specific aircraft components where required.
Under international norms prescribed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a Preliminary Report will be issued within 30 days of the occurrence. The Final Report will follow after completion of analysis and evaluation of all evidence.
According to information available on the Press Information Bureau website (https://pib.gov.in), the investigation strictly adheres to established procedures designed to ensure objectivity and accountability.
Regulatory Oversight of the Operator
Separately, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has detailed its regulatory oversight of non-scheduled operators, including M/s VSR Ventures, the operator of the aircraft involved in the accident.
During 2025, the DGCA conducted 51 regulatory audits of non-scheduled operators. Multiple surveillance inspections of M/s VSR Ventures were also carried out, covering flight safety systems, crew duty time compliance, maintenance standards under CAR M and CAR 145, documentation practices, and station facilities.
Authorities stated that all findings arising from these inspections were addressed and formally closed as per regulatory requirements.
Special Audit After the Accident
Following the Baramati accident, the Ministry directed the DGCA to conduct a Special Audit of M/s VSR Ventures. This comprehensive review includes operational control systems, maintenance practices, crew training standards, safety management systems, and monitoring of CVR/FDR data.
The special audit commenced on February 4, 2026, and is expected to conclude shortly. Findings will be evaluated under the DGCA’s Enforcement Policy and Procedures Manual, and appropriate action will be taken wherever necessary.
The Ministry has also instructed the DGCA to undertake phased special audits of other major non-scheduled operators and aerodromes engaged in VIP and VVIP operations across the country. Details on regulatory frameworks can be accessed through the DGCA portal at https://dgca.gov.in.
Focus on Transparency and Safety
The Ministry of Civil Aviation emphasised that aviation safety remains paramount. Both the AAIB investigation and DGCA audits are being carried out independently within their respective statutory mandates.
Officials reiterated that accident investigations are not intended to apportion blame but to identify causes and recommend safety improvements. The objective, they said, is to prevent recurrence and strengthen aviation safety systems nationwide.
As the technical investigation continues, authorities have appealed to the public and media to allow due process to unfold. The findings of the Preliminary and Final Reports are expected to provide clarity on the sequence of events leading to the Learjet 45 accident at Baramati.
