The incident took place at approximately 8:44 AM near the threshold of Runway 11. Flames were reportedly seen immediately after the clearance, prompting a rapid response from emergency services. The wreckage was later found on the left side of the runway, close to the runway threshold.
Baramati Airport is classified as an "uncontrolled airfield," meaning that traffic information is typically provided by instructors or pilots from flying training organisations operating at the airport, rather than a full-fledged Air Traffic Control (ATC) unit.
Flight Details and Approach
The aircraft, registered VI-SSK, first established contact with Baramati Airport at 8:18 AM. Its next communication occurred when it was about 30 nautical miles from the airport after being released by Pune Approach. The crew was instructed to descend under Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) at their discretion.
When inquiring about local conditions, the crew was informed that winds were calm and visibility was approximately 3,000 meters.
During the first approach to Runway 11, the crew reported that the runway was not in sight and initiated a go-around, aborting the landing attempt. On the second approach, the aircraft was instructed to report once the runway was visible. The crew initially stated that the runway was “currently not in sight,” but shortly after, they confirmed that it was visible.
Landing Clearance and Crash
At 8:43 AM, the aircraft was cleared to land on Runway 11. However, officials noted that the crew did not provide a readback or acknowledgement of the landing clearance. Within a minute, flames were observed near the runway threshold, prompting emergency services to rush to the scene.
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has taken over the investigation into the crash.
Authorities are continuing to assess the circumstances surrounding the tragic accident, including the role of weather, runway visibility, and communications at the uncontrolled airfield.
