The Gliding Centre Pune (GCP), located in Hadapsar, Pune, is gearing up for a significant transformation as the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has directed the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to transfer its operations, land, and assets to the Airport Authority of India (AAI) by December 31, 2024. The move comes after a committee assessed GCP’s future utilization and recommended the transfer to revitalize its operations.
Established in 1950 and inaugurated by India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, GCP holds a special place in India’s aviation history. The centre, spanning 250 acres, was once a national hub for training glider pilots and instructors. However, operational challenges in recent years have led to the decision to transfer its management to AAI under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
The transfer will see AAI leasing the land and assets of GCP for 99 years at a nominal fee of ₹1 per annum. The focus will be on reviving GCP’s legacy and bringing in modern facilities through the PPP arrangement. Challenges such as operational halts, minimal resources, and concerns about accessibility and inclusivity have been raised, with stakeholders fearing the alteration of GCP’s core purpose.
Despite the challenges, GCP has a rich legacy of achievements, including entries in the Limca Book of Records and nurturing aspiring pilots like Ruchira Gore and Laxman Kokate. The centre has been a training ground for successful aviation careers and has provided affordable access to flying experiences for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
As GCP prepares for the transition to AAI and a possible PPP model, stakeholders are hopeful for a revival that preserves its heritage and mission while adapting to modern needs. The impending changes mark the end of an era for GCP but also present opportunities for a new chapter in its history.
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