Pune: The Hadapsar Gliding Centre, India's only gliding training facility, is facing an uncertain future as it heads toward privatization. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) plans to transfer the 250-acre facility to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on December 31. Speculation about the land's privatization has sparked concerns among aviation enthusiasts and aspiring pilots.

The Hadapsar Gliding Centre currently offers affordable pilot training, charging just ₹187 per gliding flight. In contrast, private flight training institutes charge approximately ₹14,000 per session. The potential shift to privatization could drastically increase training costs, making it difficult for aspiring pilots from middle-class families to afford their dreams.

Established after independence to promote aviation, India once had 18 gliding centres. Over time, 17 of these facilities closed, leaving Hadapsar as the last remaining centre. Subsidized by the government, it provides affordable and essential training to prepare pilots for commercial licenses.

The AAI, set to take control of the facility, has not clarified its plans but is reportedly considering commercial ventures such as aero sports, hotels, restaurants, or a museum. While these developments might bring modern facilities, they would likely increase the cost of pilot training.

Former municipal corporator Yogesh Sasane criticized the move, stating, “Privatization will make training unaffordable for many. Over 6,000 students have written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the government to cancel this decision.”

Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol remarked, “Facilities will be upgraded after AAI takes over the Gliding Centre. I plan to visit the site soon to discuss its future and make appropriate decisions.”