Pune: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed the Public Works Department (PWD) to conduct a land survey of Hadapsar’s Gliding Centre before its transfer to the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The PWD has been instructed to measure the land and submit a report on its market value. The process is expected to begin soon.

The Gliding Centre, the only one of its kind in India, is being transferred from the DGCA to AAI under a 99-year lease at a nominal annual rent of ₹1. The centre spans approximately 250 acres. The transfer process had earlier been stalled following public opposition but has now been reinitiated following an order from DGCA’s Mumbai office.

Before the transfer, a three-member committee was set up to oversee the process. However, one of its members, Anil Gill, Director of DGCA’s Flight Training Department, was later suspended due to his alleged involvement in financial misconduct. Following this, the committee's decisions came under scrutiny.

Despite the allegations, the DGCA accepted the committee’s report without forming a new review panel. This has raised concerns about potential financial interests influencing the decision.

"The previous committee should be dissolved, and a new one should be formed before any decision is made regarding the Gliding Centre transfer," said Yogesh Sasane, former corporator and president of the Gliding Centre Protection Action Committee.

The Hadapsar Gliding Centre plays a crucial role in affordable pilot training:

• A single gliding session costs only ₹187.

• Offers budget-friendly training for aspiring pilots.

• Provides meteorological education and emergency response training.

• Includes practical sessions for pilot examination preparation.

• Courses range from six months to two years.

• Features experienced instructors.

• The total cost of pilot training is between ₹30,000 and ₹40,000.