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Baramati Plane Crash: Who was Captain Shambhavi Pathak, the pilot flying Ajit Pawar's plane, and what was her salary?
Indiaemploymentnews | January 28, 2026 5:39 PM CST


Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash in Baramati. His plane was being piloted by Captain Shambhavi Pathak. Let's learn more about her.

A plane crashed today in Baramati, Maharashtra. NCP leader and state Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar was on board and died in the accident. Ajit Pawar was scheduled to address several rallies as part of the campaigning for the Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti general elections. However, the plane met with an accident. The plane was being piloted by Captain Shambhavi Pathak. Let's learn more about her...

According to reports, Captain Shambhavi Pathak completed her initial education in India. She earned a BSc in Aeronautics and Aviation Science from Mumbai University. Afterward, to become a pilot, Shambhavi Pathak went to New Zealand. She received commercial pilot training from the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy. Between 2018 and 2019, she learned the intricacies of professional flying there. She also obtained her commercial pilot license from the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority.

Strengthening her career after returning to India

After completing her training abroad, Shambhavi returned to India and obtained a commercial pilot license from the DGCA. She also completed her 'Frozen ATPL', which is considered a crucial step towards becoming an airline pilot. She also held a Flight Instructor Rating, meaning she was qualified to train others in flying.

Also served as an instructor

Shambhavi Pathak also worked as an Assistant Flight Instructor. Here, she trained new pilots and further deepened her understanding of aviation.

Safety and technical training

For a pilot, not only flying but also understanding safety regulations is equally important. Shambhavi received Aviation Security (AVSEC) training from SpiceJet. She had also completed orientation training related to the A320 jet. Learjet 45 First Officer

Since August 2022, Shambhavi Pathak has been working as a full-time First Officer at VSR Ventures Private Limited. She was responsible for flying high-performance business jets like the Learjet 45. This jet is typically used for VIPs, industrialists, and special travel.

What was her salary?

Now, let's talk about salary. In the aviation sector, the salary of a business jet First Officer depends on experience and the company. Generally, a First Officer working on a jet like the Learjet earns approximately ₹3 to 4 lakh per month.


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