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About GCP
The Gliding Centre at Hadapsar, Pune (GCP) is an undertaking of the
Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Civil Aviation Department,
Government of India. Currently, 3 'Super Blanik L23'
aircrafts are being flown at the centre, which are
two-seater gliders (sailplanes) manufactured by LET (a leading
manufacturer of glider planes located in the Czech Republic). Pune has
been at the forefront of gliding in India since pre-independence times
(around 1927). Gliding in Pune was first patronised by the head of the
former Aundh state. In order to promote gliding, the Government of India
has subsidised flying operations at GCP and other locations in the
country.
Several thousand people from across various locations in India and
abroad have experienced the pleasure of gliding at GCP. Pilots with
valid Glider Pilot Licenses can fly here. The centre also offers
training to aspiring pilots. GCP has been the training ground for a
majority of glider pilots and instructors for glider flying in India.
GCP is open to general public on sundays (excepting national holidays)
and offers a joy ride to those who wish to experience glider flying.
Typically, flying season at GCP starts post monsoon (by october) and
continues until the onset of the next monsoon (by may or early june of
the following year).
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