Ajit Pawar Death: Are Small Planes Unsafe? | Explained

Last Updated:January 30, 2026, 10:26 IST

After Ajit Pawar’s flight scare, fears rose over small aircraft safety. Experts explain why turbulence feels stronger in small planes — and why it doesn’t mean they’re unsafe

Ajit Pawar was travelling in a Learjet 45. The aircraft has a fuel capacity of 2,722 kg and a range of 1,970 to 2,200 nautical miles. (PTI/File)

Sudden shaking during a flight can make passengers nervous, especially in small charter or private planes where turbulence often feels much stronger. This commonly raises the question: is flying in small planes safe, or is it riskier than flying in large commercial jets?

Aviation experts say turbulence does not automatically indicate danger. The reason it feels more intense in smaller aircraft is largely scientific. Following the death of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar, discussions around air travel and flight safety have intensified. This has led many to ask why turbulence is more noticeable in small planes.

Turbulence refers to sudden changes in airflow. When winds moving at different speeds or in different directions collide, they cause the aircraft to shake. The main causes of turbulence include storm systems and clouds, air currents hitting mountainous terrain, jet streams, and the mixing of hot and cold air masses.

Small charter planes experience turbulence more noticeably because they are much lighter than large passenger jets. Even minor gusts of wind can move a lighter aircraft more easily. Another factor is wing length. Larger aircraft have longer wings that help distribute and balance airflow more effectively. Smaller planes, with shorter wings, are less able to absorb these air disturbances.

Altitude also plays a role. Small planes usually fly at lower altitudes, between 10,000 and 25,000 feet, where weather conditions tend to be more unstable. In contrast, large commercial jets typically cruise at altitudes of 35,000 feet or higher, where the air is generally calmer.

Does this make flying in small planes dangerous? Aviation safety experts say turbulence by itself does not cause plane crashes. The primary risk during turbulence arises when passengers are not wearing seat belts, leading to falls or injuries from loose items. Most turbulence-related injuries occur to people who are standing, not due to structural damage to the aircraft.

Small planes are built to handle turbulence. All aircraft — whether small charter planes, jets, or helicopters — must meet international safety standards and undergo rigorous structural stress tests and simulations, including scenarios involving strong turbulence. These aircraft are designed to safely withstand sudden changes in air pressure.

In India and around the world, turbulence is common on small planes and helicopters flying in regions such as the Himalayas, during monsoon-season charter flights, and in mountainous countries like Alaska, Nepal, and Indonesia. Despite this, accidents caused by turbulence remain rare.

Passengers are advised to keep their seat belts fastened at all times, take turbulence warnings seriously, and follow cabin crew instructions. Checking weather conditions before flying, choosing experienced operators and pilots, and opting for morning flights in hilly areas can also reduce discomfort.

Increased turbulence in small charter planes is a result of aircraft design and flight altitude, not compromised safety. While it may feel alarming, it is usually not dangerous. According to aviation experts, with proper training, modern technology, and passenger awareness, small planes are considered just as safe as large commercial aircraft.

Ajit Pawar was travelling in a Learjet 45. The aircraft has a fuel capacity of 6,062 pounds (2,722 kg) and a range of 1,970 to 2,200 nautical miles (approximately 3,700 to 4,074 km), allowing nonstop flights of four to five hours. The distance between Mumbai and Baramati is about 256 km, meaning the aircraft could easily complete a round trip on a full tank.

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