Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died on Wednesday (January 28, 2026), along with four others, after his chartered aircraft went down in flames, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed.
The incident occurred when the plane attempted to land in Baramati, killing everyone on board, according to the aviation regulator.
Also read: Ajit Pawar plane crash LIVE
All those on board — including Pawar, his attendant, a Personal Security Officer (PSO), the pilot, and the co-pilot — were declared dead.
Air crashes, though relatively rare, have at times claimed the lives of influential political leaders, scientists, and public figures, leaving a lasting impact on public life and national memory. Over the decades, several such tragedies involving aircraft have abruptly cut short prominent careers.
This story looks back at the politicians and well-known figures who lost their lives in air accidents:
Published – January 28, 2026 11:47 am IST
