Captain Shambhavi Pathak and Captain Sumit Kapoor, both Delhi-based pilots, were among those reported to have lost their lives in the aircraft crash near Baramati in Maharashtra. The incident has drawn national attention, not only because of the passengers on board, but also due to the loss of two highly regarded aviation professionals.
According to information shared by the aircraft operator, both pilots were experienced and well respected within the aviation community.
Captain Sumit Kapoor
Captain Sumit Kapoor was serving as the Pilot-in-Command of the aircraft. In this role, he was responsible for leading the flight crew and managing the most critical phases of the journey, including take-off, navigation and landing.
Colleagues described him as a seasoned pilot with deep operational knowledge and calm decision-making skills. His experience made him a trusted figure within the organisation, and he was known for mentoring younger pilots.
Captain Shambhavi Pathak
Captain Shambhavi Pathak was the First Officer on the flight. Her responsibilities included assisting in aircraft control, monitoring flight instruments, maintaining communication with air traffic control and supporting key flight decisions throughout the journey.
She came from a defence background and was the daughter of an Army officer. She studied at Air Force Bal Bharati School before completing a BSc in Aeronautics from the University of Mumbai. She later trained at the New Zealand International Commercial Pilot Academy, where she specialised in commercial flight operations.
Her academic background and international training marked her as one of the promising professionals in Indian civil aviation.
Aircraft Condition And Operator’s Statement
VSR Aviation official VK Singh stated that both pilots were Delhi-based and highly experienced. Addressing questions around the aircraft’s condition, he said the jet was fully serviceable to the best of the company’s knowledge.
“There was no technical failure. The aircraft was very well maintained,” Singh said, adding that routine checks had been carried out as required.
Remembering The Crew
Speaking emotionally about the loss, Singh recalled his personal bond with both pilots. He described Captain Sumit Kapoor as a close friend and noted that Kapoor’s son is also a pilot with the same organisation. He spoke of Captain Shambhavi Pathak with deep affection, describing her as being like his own child.
“They were not just excellent pilots, but wonderful human beings,” he said.
As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the Baramati crash, tributes have poured in from across the aviation community. For many, the deaths of Captain Shambhavi Pathak and Captain Sumit Kapoor represent not just a tragic accident, but the loss of dedication, discipline and professionalism that defines civil aviation at its best.
