AAIB releases its initial report on crash that killed Ajit Pawar, Pg6

Key Highlights:

• AAIB released its preliminary report on the January 28 Learjet 45 crash at Baramati airfield, which killed former Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and four others.
• The report highlights deficient landing and meteorological infrastructure at smaller airfields like Baramati.
• The report recommends tighter regulatory oversight and a comprehensive review of airstrip licensing.
• Data was retrieved from the flight data recorder, but cockpit voice recorder data is still being analyzed.
• The aircraft crashed on its second landing attempt after reporting sighting the airfield.
• The report indicates the aircraft banked right before hitting trees and the ground.

Detailed Insights:

• The Baramati airfield operates under visual flight rules (VFR), relying on external visual references for take-offs and landings.
• DGCA regulations prescribe a minimum visibility of 5 km for VFR operations, but the report doesn't mention any special dispensation sought for this flight.
• The airfield lacks navigational aids other than wind socks, and the wind sock was unavailable on the approach side of the runway.
• The airport lacks an in-house aircraft rescue and firefighting unit, which is arranged ad hoc for charter flights.
• The last runway re-carpeting was in March 2016, leading to faded markings and loose gravel on the runway surface.
• The AAIB recommends enhancing landing aids and basic meteorological facilities at airports lacking instrument landing support.
• The report suggests all flights landing at airports without instrument landing systems must adhere to relevant protocols.

Key Concepts Involved:

• AAIB (Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau): An Indian government body responsible for investigating aircraft accidents and incidents.
• Visual Flight Rules (VFR): A set of regulations under which a pilot operates an aircraft in weather conditions clear enough to see where the aircraft is going.
• DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation): The Indian governmental regulatory body for civil aviation.