India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has identified the flight crew’s decisions and handling of the aircraft as the probable cause of a Learjet crash at Mumbai airport in September 2023. The final investigation report, released in October 2026, highlights an unstable landing approach, poor weather conditions and failures to follow standard operating procedures.
The accident involved a Learjet 45XR operated by VSR Ventures on a non-scheduled flight from Visakhapatnam to Mumbai. All eight people aboard were injured, but there were no fatalities.
What Happened During the Landing?
The aircraft was attempting to land at Mumbai airport on September 14, 2023, amid heavy rain and reduced visibility. During its approach, the aircraft deviated from the intended flight path and became increasingly unstable.
According to the investigation, cockpit warnings indicated that the aircraft was approaching a dangerous aerodynamic condition. A stall warning followed, and the jet eventually crashed near the runway before catching fire.
The aircraft sustained extensive damage, including the separation of its wings from the fuselage. Emergency teams responded to the incident, extinguished the fire and helped evacuate everyone aboard.
Why Did Investigators Blame Pilot Actions?
The AAIB concluded that the crew continued an unstabilised approach despite marginal weather conditions. Inappropriate handling of the aircraft contributed to an aerodynamic stall at low altitude, leaving insufficient opportunity for recovery.
An unstabilised approach occurs when an aircraft cannot maintain the required speed, descent path and alignment for a safe landing. Standard aviation procedures generally require pilots to abandon such an approach and perform a go-around before attempting another landing.
Investigators also identified shortcomings in airspeed monitoring and a delay in calling for a go-around. Strong tailwinds and poor visibility further complicated the landing.
The report suggested that the crew may have been under pressure to complete the landing before Mumbai airport’s scheduled restricted operating hours for non-scheduled flights began. This was identified as a contributing consideration rather than the sole cause of the accident.
Safety and Training Concerns
The investigation also raised concerns about pilot training, record-keeping and internal safety procedures at VSR Ventures.
The AAIB recommended that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) review recurrent pilot training requirements, particularly simulator exercises involving stall recovery in landing configuration. It also recommended a one-time audit of training records for fixed-wing pilots working with non-scheduled and general aviation operators.
These recommendations aim to strengthen pilot preparedness and ensure that crews can recognise unstable approaches and respond appropriately under pressure.
Why the Findings Matter for Indian Aviation
The report highlights the importance of disciplined decision-making during one of the most demanding phases of a flight. Poor weather, tailwinds and reduced visibility can quickly turn a routine landing into a dangerous situation when standard procedures are not followed.
The findings may also prompt closer scrutiny of training standards and operational oversight among private charter operators. Effective go-around procedures, regular simulator training and strong safety management systems are essential to reducing the risk of similar accidents.
Summary
India’s aviation accident investigators have concluded that an unstable landing approach and inappropriate aircraft handling caused the 2023 Mumbai Learjet crash. Poor visibility, strong tailwinds, inadequate airspeed monitoring and a delayed go-around contributed to the accident. All eight occupants were injured, but none died. The AAIB has recommended stronger pilot training and audits of aviation operators’ training records.
