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Early Probe Finds Baramati Crash Learjet Lacked GAGAN Navigation

Investigators are probing whether a pre-2021 registration exemption left the jet without satellite-guided approaches at an airfield lacking ILS during low visibility.

Overview

  • The chartered Learjet 45 crashed near the runway on a second approach to Baramati, killing all five on board, including Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.
  • Preliminary checks show the aircraft was not equipped with India’s GAGAN satellite augmentation system.
  • Records indicate the jet was entered on the Indian registry on June 2, 2021, just 28 days before a rule took effect requiring satellite-based approach capability on newly registered aircraft.
  • Baramati lacks an Instrument Landing System, and reduced visibility was reported at the time, factors that made satellite-supported approaches especially relevant.
  • DGCA and AAIB teams have recovered the flight data and cockpit voice recorders and caution that the absence of GAGAN alone does not establish the cause.