AAIB blames pilot error and weather for 2023 Mumbai Learjet crash

The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has released its final report regarding the September 14, 2023, crash of a VSR Ventures Learjet 45XR at Mumbai airport. The investigation concluded that the probable cause was the flight crew’s decision to continue an unstable approach during marginal weather conditions, combined with improper aircraft handling that resulted in an unrecoverable aerodynamic stall at a low altitude.

Several contributory factors were identified, including the crew’s failure to monitor airspeed, a delayed decision to perform a go-around, poor visibility, and strong tailwinds. The report also noted an undue commitment by the crew to land before Mumbai airport’s restricted operating hours began.

In response, the AAIB has issued several safety recommendations, including a call for the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to conduct a one-time audit of pilot training records, particularly for non-scheduled and general aviation operators. The bureau also recommended that simulator training be updated to include more rigorous stall recovery exercises during various flight configurations.