On January 28, 2026, a plane carrying five people, including NCP chief Ajit Pawar, crashed just before landing at Baramati. There was a massive blast, and no one survived.
Initial reports blamed bad weather and fog at the airport. However, these reasons are no longer being treated as the confirmed cause. The truth is expected to emerge from the black box recovered today. The black box, or flight data recorder, contains flight details and recordings of communication between the pilot and air traffic control.
Baramati airport does not have a regular air traffic control system. The aircraft was seen circling in the air before landing, possibly waiting for a clear signal, but it eventually crashed.
Attention is now on the DGCA and the investigation report after the black box is analysed, especially the final ten seconds of the recording, which are crucial.
The Maharashtra NCP has lost a major leader who served seven times as Deputy Chief Minister. Following the party’s demand, his wife Suneta Pawar has been inducted as Deputy Chief Minister to carry forward his legacy. Party leaders are now expected to strengthen the organisation and continue his work.
Reports also say that Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar had held talks to merge the NCP and were expected to announce the decision on February 12.
