AAIB flags VSR training and audit lapses in 2023 Mumbai Learjet crash

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has concluded that the September 2023 crash of a Learjet at Mumbai airport was caused by the crew's decision to continue an unstable approach in poor weather conditions. The investigation also revealed lapses in pilot training, record-keeping, and internal audits at VSR Ventures, the operator of the crashed aircraft.

The AAIB recommended that the DGCA conduct a one-time check of all training records for non-scheduled/general aviation organizations to ensure mandatory simulator exercises were completed. The final report, released after more than three years, came more than 12 months after the accident, which was beyond the recommended timeframe by the International Civil Aviation Organization.

The Learjet 45XR crashed while landing on runway 27 in non-scheduled flight from Visakhapatnam, killing eight people on board. The report found that the crew failed to monitor airspeed, handle the aircraft improperly, and show "undue commitment" to land before restrictions took effect. Poor weather conditions, high tailwind, and the aircraft's serviceability did not contribute to the accident.

The investigation also found that skill checks on critical emergency items were not carried out properly during recurrent training, and technical and airframe log books were not maintained properly. The DGCA had not reviewed the findings of its own audit of VSR. The AAIB suggested that the DGCA carry out a one-time check of all training records for non-scheduled/general aviation organizations, add stall recovery in landing configuration to recurrent training, and require pilots to go around whenever an approach is not stabilized.