Baramati Plane Crash Update: Black Box damaged by fire, DGCA orders special audit of VIP flights

The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has released a critical update regarding the investigation into the Learjet 45 crash that occurred in Baramati on January 28. While the technical probe is moving forward, authorities are facing challenges with the flight recorders due to fire damage. In response to the accident, the government has launched a strict safety audit of private operators to ensure such incidents do not happen again.

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What is the current status of the investigation?

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the inquiry into the accident. Officials have successfully downloaded data from the Digital Flight Data Recorder (DFDR) at their lab in New Delhi. However, the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), which records conversation inside the cockpit, was heavily damaged by intense heat and fire.

Because of this damage, the investigation team has sought technical assistance from the manufacturer, Honeywell, in the USA to retrieve the audio data. Meanwhile, the family of the victims has demanded a CBI probe, questioning how the black box could be destroyed so easily. A preliminary report on the accident is expected to be released by the end of February.

Strict actions taken by DGCA for safety

To improve aviation safety, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) started a special audit of the operator, M/s VSR Ventures, on February 4. This audit covers crucial areas like crew training, maintenance records, and safety management systems. The government is not stopping there; they have also ordered checks on 14 other major operators who fly VIPs and VVIPs.

Additionally, a safety review is being conducted for over 400 uncontrolled airstrips across India. This step aims to standardize safety protocols for private and chartered flights, ensuring that small airports meet necessary safety standards for landing and takeoff.

Key Details of the Incident