The proposed transfer of the Gliding Centre Pune (GCP) from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has stirred up a storm of opposition in Hadapsar and surrounding areas. Over 6,000 residents, pilots, and trainees have come together to voice their concerns about the potential impact of this move.
One of the key concerns raised by the residents is the fear of privatization. They worry that transferring the center to AAI could lead to a sharp increase in prices, making glider rides unaffordable for many. Currently, a glider ride costs ₹187, but under AAI management, this could skyrocket to ₹5,000, putting it out of reach for middle- and lower-income groups.
Accessibility is also a major worry for the residents. The GCP, under DGCA, has been a hub for affordable aviation experiences and training, giving aspiring pilots from all backgrounds a chance to pursue their dreams. They fear that if the center falls under AAI’s control, it will prioritize commercial interests over the needs of the common man.
Pilots and trainees have expressed doubts about AAI’s competence to manage the gliding center effectively. They believe that DGCA’s legacy of inclusivity and affordable training is unparalleled and that handing over the center to AAI could jeopardize its accessibility and affordability.
In response to the proposed transfer, residents, pilots, and trainees have launched grassroots campaigns to oppose the move. They have collected over 6,000 signatures, initiated a postcard campaign involving schoolchildren, and are planning to launch an online petition and missed-call service to gather more support.
Prominent voices of opposition include senior pilot Prashant Gosavi and former corporator Yogesh Sasane, who have emphasized the importance of community action and the need to preserve the center’s legacy of inclusivity and affordability.
Since its inception in the 1950s, the Gliding Centre Pune has played a crucial role in aviation training in India, providing foundational training for pilots and equipping them with crisis management skills. It has been a stepping stone for many aspiring pilots, offering them an affordable entry point into the aviation sector.
As the December 31 deadline looms, campaigners are prepared to escalate their protests if the government does not reconsider its decision. They plan to intensify grassroots campaigns, expand outreach efforts, and continue appealing to key officials to address their concerns and protect the future of the Gliding Centre Pune.
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