DGCA Orders Special Safety Audit of 14 Charter Operators After Baramati Crash, VSR Ventures Reviewed in Separate Phase

DGCA India’s aviation regulator ordered a phased safety audit of 14 charter operators after a fatal Baramati Learjet crash, intensifying oversight of non-scheduled flights.

Pune | 12 February, 2026– India’s aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), has ordered a special safety audit of 14 charter and non-scheduled flight operators following the fatal aircraft crash at Baramati in Maharashtra. The move comes amid heightened scrutiny of private and charter aviation operations after the tragic incident that claimed five lives, including that of a senior political leader. The regulator has initiated the audit under a phased plan aimed at reinforcing compliance, airworthiness, and operational safety across the sector.

The Baramati crash, which occurred during a landing approach in low-visibility conditions, has triggered a wider review of charter flight safety standards. Investigative agencies are currently examining technical parameters, maintenance records, pilot training compliance, and flight data to determine the exact cause of the accident. In response, the DGCA has taken proactive measures to prevent similar incidents by intensifying oversight of non-scheduled operators.

Under the “Special Safety Audit Plan 2026 – Phase 1,” inspection teams began field audits earlier this month and are expected to complete the first phase within weeks. The 14 selected operators will undergo comprehensive checks covering aircraft maintenance documentation, engine performance logs, operational procedures, crew licensing validity, simulator training records, safety management systems, and adherence to regulatory guidelines. Officials have emphasized that this exercise is preventive and corrective in nature, designed to identify systemic weaknesses before they escalate into safety risks.

Interestingly, VSR Ventures Pvt Ltd, the operator of the crashed aircraft, has not been included in the initial batch of 14 companies audited under Phase 1. Instead, the DGCA has formed a separate, dedicated review team to examine the company’s safety compliance framework independently. This parallel audit is expected to scrutinize fleet maintenance standards, operational approvals, flight dispatch protocols, and internal safety audits conducted by the company. Authorities have indicated that findings from this review may influence future regulatory action.

Aviation experts say the phased audit approach allows regulators to systematically examine the sector without disrupting flight operations. India’s charter aviation industry has expanded significantly over the past decade, driven by corporate travel demand, medical evacuation services, tourism, and VIP movements. However, the rapid growth has also raised questions about whether oversight mechanisms have evolved proportionately.

Unlike scheduled commercial airlines, which operate under highly structured compliance audits and international oversight mechanisms, non-scheduled charter operators often vary in fleet size, operational frequency, and infrastructure capabilities. The DGCA’s latest initiative is widely viewed as an effort to standardize safety benchmarks across both major and mid-sized operators.

Industry observers note that safety audits of this nature typically result in corrective action plans, temporary operational restrictions, or financial penalties if serious non-compliance is discovered. In extreme cases, operators may face suspension of permits until deficiencies are rectified. Officials have reiterated that passenger safety remains the top priority and that regulatory enforcement will be strict wherever necessary.

The aviation sector in India is currently witnessing steady expansion, with increased demand for private jets and charter services. As the market grows, ensuring consistent safety standards becomes critical to maintaining public confidence. The Baramati tragedy has served as a stark reminder that even smaller aircraft operations must adhere to rigorous safety protocols.

In conclusion, the DGCA’s decision to conduct a special audit of 14 charter operators, alongside a separate review of VSR Ventures, signals a firm regulatory response to recent events. The phased inspection plan reflects a broader commitment to strengthening aviation safety oversight and preventing future mishaps in India’s rapidly evolving charter aviation landscape.

Follow us On Our Social media Handles :
Instagram
Youtube
Facebook
Twitter

Also Read- Pune