Ajit Pawar dies in crash; spotlight on poor charter safety

A fatal Learjet crash in Baramati, killing Maharashtra's deputy chief minister, has exposed the concerning safety lapses among non-scheduled aviation operators. Experts point to widespread violations, including using expired components and falsifying records, driven by cost-cutting pressures. Many charter operators, unlike commercial airlines, operate with lean safety teams and often fly to remote airports with limited facilities, increasing risks.