The tragic accident in which Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Ajit Pawar and four others were killed on January 28, 2026, occurred at Baramati, which is an uncontrolled airfield. File
| Photo Credit: The Hindu
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has called for an immediate review of the operational conditions at uncontrolled airstrips across the country. Expressing concern over accidents at such airstrips in the recent past due to inadequate safety standards for aircraft operations, the aviation regulator said several uncontrolled airstrips were being utilised for the landing and departure of aircraft. “It is also noted with concern that, in the past, certain accidents and incidents have occurred at and in the vicinity of such airstrips, highlighting the critical importance of maintaining adequate safety standards for aircraft operations,” the DGCA said in a safety advisory issued to owners and operators of uncontrolled airstrips.Official sources said runways that did not have a functional Air Traffic Control tower were categorised as uncontrolled airstrips. The tragic accident in which Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra Ajit Pawar and four others were killed on January 28, 2026, occurred at Baramati, which is an uncontrolled airfield. The aircraft involved in the accident was a Learjet 45, owned by M/s VSR Ventures Pvt Ltd.Under the provisions of Section 4 of the Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR), the DGCA prescribes the minimum safety requirements to be complied with by operators of airstrips used for aircraft operations. “It has come to the notice of DGCA that a number of such airstrips are not being maintained in accordance with the prescribed standards, thereby adversely affecting the safety of flight operations,” the advisory said.Immediate review Consequently, all such airport and airstrip operators were advised to undertake an immediate review of the operational condition of their facilities and ensure strict compliance.The operators were advised to carry out periodic inspections and maintenance of critical infrastructure, including runways, taxiways, aprons, visual aids, markings, drainage systems, boundary fencing, and access control arrangements. “Any deficiencies affecting operational safety should be rectified without delay. Adequate resources should be allocated for infrastructure upkeep to ensure that facilities remain serviceable and safe for aircraft operations throughout the year,” the DGCA said.The aviation regulator also encouraged operators of airstrips that were regularly used for aircraft operations to obtain an Aerodrome Licence, wherever applicable, in accordance with the provisions of the Aircraft Rules and relevant DGCA requirements. Published - June 18, 2026 11:04 pm IST
