Positions Held

  • Present 2014

    Managing Trustee

    The Skyline Aviation Club



  • 2014 1992

    Chief Pilot Instructor

    The Skyline Aviation Club



  • 1992 1990

    Ground Instructor

    Indian Aviation Academy



  • 1990 1988

    Ground Instructor

    Fly High Aviation Club



  • 1988 1986

    Typist

    Life Insurance Coproration of India



  • 1986 1986

    Lower Divison Clerk

    National Water Development Agency


  • 1983 1983

    Accounts Clerk

    Pharm Chem Distributors


  • 1980 1978

    Part Time Job

    Offices


  • 1978 1974

    Part Time Job

    Plastic Ring Factory, Mumbai


  • 1974 1968

    Part Time Job

    Agricultural Child labourer


  • 1967 1961

    Childhood

Education

  • Aircraft Dispatcher 2008

    Certified Aircraft Dispatcher

    iFOD, Texas, USA

  • Amateur Radio          1994

    HAM Radio Operator Grade I

    Ministry of Communication & IT, Govt. Of India

  • Pilot Instructor       1989

    Certified Pilot Instructor

    Aviation Training Inc, USA

  • Commercial Pilot    1989

    Commercial Pilot Certificate

    Aviation Training Inc, USA

  • National Cadet Corps  1983

    "C" Certificate Holder

    Ministry of Defence, Govt of India

  • College Education    1983

    Bachelor of Commerce

    Chinai College, Mumbai University

  • Higher Secondary    1980

    Bandra Urdu Junior College

    Bandra, Mumbai

  • Secondary Education   1978

    St. Joseph High School

    Malad East, Mumbai

  • Primary Education    1974

    Vardha Rashtriya Shala

    Manekpore, Gujarat

  • Pre-Primary Education   1967

    Prathmik Shala, Shingi Faliya

    Vyara, Gujarat

Memberships

  • MVM            2015

    National President & Trustee

    MVM, India

  • BJP            2012

    Aviation-In-Charge

    Bharatiya Janata Party, Surat

  • Lions Club   2010

    Lifetime Member of Lions Club

    International

  • IAS                  2007

    Indo-American Society

    Mumbai, India

  • CMT            2007

    Founder & Trustee

    Chetaniya Mahakali Temple

  • ASI                  2001

    Aeronautical Society of India

    New Delhi, India

  • FIP                  1998

    Federation of Indian Pilots

    Mumbai, India

  • ARSI            1991

    Amateur Radio Society of India

    Bangalore

  • AOPA            1992

    Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association

    United States of America

  • ACL            1981

    American Central Library

    Mumbai

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Born


Born to a poverty stricken family in the rural village of Vyara, district Tapi, Gujarat. Coincidently he also shares his birthday with Leonardo Da Vinci who first dreamt about Flying

15th April 1961
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Proud Parents


Birth of the first child is always special for parents. They were extremely happy at the birth of their son.

1961
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Heritage & Heirlooms


His grandparents in their traditional Gujarati attire.

1961
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Village Hut


In 1960, India had recently attained Independence and state of Gujarat was formed. Stayed in a small hut along with 7 other family members

1961
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As a Child


Worked on farms and studied under oil lamps

1962
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Memorable Childhood


With maternal grandmother and aunt at the annual mela that was held at the village, Vyara.

1964
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Village School, Vyara


Vyara was part of Maharaja Sayajirao's Kingdom. Student life was very different and included alot of labour work.

1967
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Growing Up


The family owned livestock were marginal farmers doing multiple labour work to sustain themselves.

1968
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Manekpore Hut


Traditional village hut made of mud flooring, cow dung and bamboo walls and roof of clay plates over thached hay.

1969
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Village School, Manekpore


Studied from 2nd standard to 7th standard and appeared for the Gujarat board exam here.

1972
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Village School, Manekpore


SamuJivan - Sarvoday Jan Yojna. India had just fought a gruelling war with Pakistan. Basic neccessaties like food was scarce. Each student brings a matchbox filled with rice or pulse and deposits it with the school. At the end of the week the students cook food and a have a hearty meal

1973
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A Young Adult Migrating to Mumbai


Being the eldest son in the family, alot of resposibilites were put on his shoulders. Along with school he worked as a labourer on multiple farms

1974

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Child Labourer


Came to Mumbai chasing his dreams. Started off as a child labourer in the construction field

1975
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Knowledge is Key


Knowledge is the only way out of poverty and success. He worked hard at school while doing part time odd jobs.

1977
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A Proud Father


His father played a pivotal role in teaching and shaping him into a deeply family oriented and hard working person

1978
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Fashionable Teen


A young man, both fashionable and energetic; appeared for his SSC exam in this year

March 1978
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Meeting New People


Cultural Exchange where he met and learnt alot from them.

1979
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Public speaking


One of the key aspects of becoming successful is to be heard. From the very beginning he was an excellent orator.

1980
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Ready to Serve


The period between 1970 & 1990 was a tense period between India, Pakistan and China. War was certain. Capt AD Manek patriotism ran deep in his veins. He immediately enlisted into the NCC.

1980
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NCC Training Begins


National Cadet Corp is a world famous army training center. The training is very gruelling and intense, and many drop out mid way.

1981
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Brothers in Arm


With patriotic and nationalistic sentiments high in the country many of the young Indians enlisted into various divisions of the military. Capt Manek and his brother both enlisted and joint different divisions of the army

1981
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NCC Batch


Capt AD Manek's Nation Cadet Corp batch.

1982
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The Legendary JRD Tata


With First Indian Pilot Shri JRD Tata

15th Oct 1982
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Horse Riding Training


Part of the NCC program.

1983
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Guns and More


Training included Gun and rifle shooting.

1983
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An Indian Soldier
Regtl No: MAH/SD/81/100214
Rank: Under Officer


Successfully completed 3 years NCC Military Trainning and passed "C" Certificate of NCC under Ministry of Defence, Govt of India.

1984
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Best NCC Award


Receiving Best NCC Cadet Award by hands of former Cricketer Shri. Mahdav Mantri uncle of former Cricketer Shri. Sunil Gavaskar

1984
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Marriage to Mrs.Kumud Manek


Married Mrs. Kumud Manek promising her a happy and prosperous life.

1984
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A Happy Couple


Happy with what they had, he strived to give his family the best and worked hard for it

1984

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The Dream Begins


Began a journey filled with obstacles and hurdles of 15 years to achieve his dream

1984
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A Student Pilot


The orginal license that was issued by the Govt of India to Capt AD Manek. All the struggles were worth it.

1984
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Taking to the Air


After all the hardship and years of struggle he finally began to live his dream of flying with eagles

1985
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Flight Training India


The time when flying was a luxury and was meant for the super rich, training was available on old aircrafts like the Pushpak.

1985
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With the Insructor


Acharya Devobhava - A Teacher is God. Forever grateful for the lessons he learnt from his instructor during his early days of flying in India

1985
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An Indian Private Pilot


Capable of flying an aircraft on his own as Pilot In Command

1985
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Inauguration of Skyline


Established a training institute for pilots The Skyline aviation club .

1987
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Delivering First Aviation Lecture


First Lecture to a batch of future pilots

1987
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First Batch of Trainee Students


Humble beginnings to a glamorous career

1987
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Not all Politician's are bad


With Shri Amarsinh Chaudhary,Chief Minister, Gujarat State; the only politician who recognised his struggle and helped him to arrange educational loan from Social Welfare Department, Govt of Gujarat

1988
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USA Calling


Went to USA to pursue his commerical flight training

1988
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With U.S Flight Instructor


Went to Hayward, California USA for advanced training.

1989
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Private Pilot Trainees


First batch of Private pilot students. Most of them are now senior captains in various airlines

1991
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The Legendary JRD Tata


His idol, First Pilot of India Shri JRD Tata on the occasion of Diamond Jublee Celebration (60 years) of Civil Aviation in India

15th Oct 1992

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Commercial Pilot Trainees


First batch of commercial pilots. Most of them are now senior captains in various airlines

1993
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10 Golden Years


A decade of teaching and guiding young students about aviation. Students and aviatiors felicitated Capt AD Manek.

15th Oct 1997
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Airforce Day Celebration


Organised Airshow for the Indian Airforce. Gp. Capt Arjun Das of the Airforce inaugurated the show Airforce Station Madh Island, Mumbai

8th Oct 1999
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Helping Bollywood


Ever seen airplanes and helicopters being destroyed in Indian cinemas? He is regularly called to conduct aerial shots with scaled models so that it looks real.

10th Jan 2000
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Trip to Dubai


Visit to Emirates Flight School in Dubai, UAE

2000
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Ready to serve anytime
Gujarat Earthquake


Provided rescue cordination and communications assistance through HAM radio to the various Government Departments

26th Jan 2001
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Ministers Take Note


With former Civil Aviation Minister Shri Sharad Yadav to discuss the state of aviation in the country on International Woman's Day at Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan

8th Mar 2001

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Boeing 747 Test Pilots


With Capt Suzana Nancy and Capt Nadia Roberts test pilots for the Queen of the Skies Boeing 747 working with Boeing company USA, during international womens day celebration in Mumbai, India.

2002
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Hard work never goes un-noticed


The Skyline Aviation Club became globally acclaimed for its excellent pilot training. Official from Australia and New Zealand on his visit to the club

2003
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Indian Daredevil & Business tycoon
Dr. Vijaypat Singhania


Dr. Vijaypat Singhania, Chairman Raymonds on the 100th Anniversary of Wright Brothers Flight at the opening of aviation museum in Mumbai

17th December 2003
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Felicitated


Capt AD Manek and The Skyline Aviation Club felicitated by then Civil Aviation Minister Shri Praful Patel

2004
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Doing a Good Job for Religion


Flower showering over devotees of Brahmakumaris on the occasion of opening of Brahmakumari Center, Borivali, Mumbai

2004
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Educating Industrialists


Highlighting the need for Air ambulance and how it can help save many lives; to a group of industrialist at Udyog 2004 program organsied by Sadan Gujarat, Chamber of Commerce and Industry at Surat.

2004
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Spreading knowledge through Seminars


2006
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Equal Partners


With Mrs Kumud Manek, a keen aviator herself. Here seen at Boeing Aircraft Manufacturing Company, Seattle, USA

2006
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Trip to Vancouver, Canada


Visit the to beautiful country of Canada.

2006
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Return to the Bay Area


Visit to San Francisco, USA. After almost 18 years, visited the place where he was trained, this time as a successful aviator.

2006
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Delta Airlines, USA


Represented Delta Connection Academy owned by Delta Airline, USA. Here seen with Mr. Gabriel Garcis, CEO in Florida, USA

2006
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London Calling


Visited London with family

2006
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Civil Aviation Authority,
United Kingdom


Visited United Kingdom and met Mr. Mike Grieson, the Head of CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) at CAA HQ, Gatwick Airport

2006
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Looks Familiar?


Interviewed on several occasions by many English and Hindi News Channels whenever a pressing aviation issue requires some expert advice. From runway conditions to bird hits his adivce is highly sought after

2007
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Learning from Industry Seniors


With the founder of Air Deccan Airlines, Capt Gopinath

2007
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Travelling down South. Austrailia


Trip to Melbourne Australia.

2007
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Travelling down South. New Zealand


Trip to Wellington, New Zealand.

2007
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NASA


Visit to NASA space center Houston, Texas USA

23rd Mar 2008
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NASA


Visit to NASA space center Houston, Texas USA

23rd Mar 2008
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Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi


Recognised and congratulated by the then Chief Minister of Gujarat and current Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi. The Chief Minister reviewed the services rendered and applauded Capt AD Manek for his continous service to the nation

3rd Dec 2008
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Celebrites and Dignitaries


With Late Shri Ashok Bhatt former Speaker Vidhan Sabha, Government Of Gujarat

12th Jan 2009
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Celebrites and Dignitaries


With Bollywood Actor Shatrugan Sinha

12th Jan 2009
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MOU with Government of Gujarat


With Capt Ajay Chauhan, Director Civil Aviation Department, Government of Gujarat, singning MOU at Vibrant Gujarat for small size aeroplane manufacturing company in Gujarat

12th Jan 2009
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Bollywood Connections


With Bollywood - Creative Direction for Areial shots. Actor Dev Anand

24th Apr 2009
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India - USA Bonding


Felicitation by Mr. Paul Folmsee US Consulate General on the occasion of 50 years of Indo - American association. Capt AD Manek is an active member of Indo-American Society

24th Apr 2009
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Musical Notes - A silent passion


Produced album of spiritual songs "Manek Verana Mahegam Ma" for his spiritual guru Haribava of Mehegam, Bharuch Here seen with Famous Gazal Singer Manhar Udhas.

21st Jan 2010
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Pride of Gujarat Award


Received Golden Achievement Award by the hands of Late Shri. Ashok Bhatt President of Vidhan Sabha, Govt of Gujarat and Shri Bharatsinh Solanki, Govt of India for his valuable services for emergency communication throught HAM radio during aftermath of Gujarat Earthquake 2001

21st Jan 2010
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Celebrites and Dignitaries


With Shri Ganpatbhai Vasava, Speaker, Vidhansabha, Government of Gujarat

20th June 2011
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Penning his Thoughts


"Kshatrateji Mahyavanshio" - A Gujarati book co-authored by Capt AD Manek is released by then Chief Minister of Gujarat and current Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi at CM Office, Gandhinagar

16th Dec 2011
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Aviation In-Charge, BJP


Appointed as Aviaiton In-charge by BJP to cordinate air transportation of political leaders. Here seen with Ms Smriti Irani, HRD Minister, Govt of India and former TV actress after landing at Buhari, Gujarat

8th Dec 2012
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Back home but in a Helicopter


Visited his native village as a successful man.

28th Feb 2014
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Education Excellence Award


Received Award by Chess Master Viswanathan Anand for the Most Promising Pilot Training Institute in Mumbai

31st May 2014
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A Big Bird, An Airbus


At the helm of an Airbus A320. His own student was the commander of the flight.

15th Aug 2014
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Restricted Access


Capt AD Manek's name and reputation as an aviator and as a HAM radio operator gives him access to sensitive and prohibited areas. Mumbai ATC invited him and a few lucky students to visit the tower and see in person how the Air Traffic Control functions.

26th Aug 2014
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First Love, Cessna 172


No pilot can forget their first flight in a Cessna. He routinely takes his Cessna 172 for joy rides around Shirpur

6th Nov 2014
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Lets Take a Ride


Where there is a will there is a way. The same place where he saw a dream as a child labourer after observing aircraft overhead, he lands his helicopter right there fullfilling his aspirations and dreams

15th Feb 2015
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Flower Showering


Being a disciple of Haribaba Maharaj, paid tribute to him by showering flowers on his newly constructed Temple at Madh - Mahegam, Bharuch on the auspicious day of MAHASHIVRATRI

15th Feb 2015
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The Flying Family


Capt AD Manek and family. All aviation lovers. All highly succesful aviators.

Current
  • Awards
    With All Awards
  • PIE 2017
    Pride Of Indian Education Award

    Capt. Manek received Best Aviation Instructor in India award by Pride of Indian Education sponsored by Brands Impact.

  • SJE 2015
    Social Service Award

    Capt. Manek received Social Service Award by the Department Of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of Gujarat 2015

  • BAEE 2014
    Brands Academy Education Excellence Award

    Capt. Manek received Education Excellence Award by Brands Academy in May 2014 for Most Promising Pilot Training Institute. The award was presented by Chess Master Viswanathan Anand.

  • GPA 2014
    Gram Panchayat Manekpur Award

    Capt. Manek received Gram Panchayat Award at Manekpur, Bardoli, for his continous social welfare services carried out during his life time. It is one of the highest award given to a member of the community. His mother accepts the award as Capt Manek dedicates it to her.

  • SNM 2012
    Shamji Nanji Marwadi Award

    Capt. Manek received social service Award by Shamji Nanji Marwadi memorial trust, Mumbai in 2012

  • PoG 2010
    Pride of Gujarat Award

    Capt A.D. Manek receives award by hands of Late Shri. Ashok Bhatt President of Vidhan Sabha, Govt of Gujarat and Shri Bharatsinh Solanki, Minister, Govt of India in 2010 for his continued serivce to the nation during times of utmost emergency and need. Capt AD Manek provided his services during Gujarat Earthquake which devastated the nation.

  • NIAR 2001
    Exceptional Service Award

    Awarded to Capt A.D Manek in recognition of Exceptionally Noteworthy Service as as Ameteur Radio Operator Providing Emergency Communication Support under Extremely Difficult conditions in the Aftermath of Gujarat Earthquake Disaster January 26, 2001.

  • BIA 1997
    Best Instructor Award

    Awarded to Capt A.D Manek for his exceptional teaching skills and techniques. This award was presented to him during the 10th Anniversary celebrations of The Skyline Aviation Club in 1997.

  • IAF 1996
    Indian Airforce Airshow Award

    Awarded to Capt A.D Manek by the Indian Air Force for participation in Air Show which demonstrated Indias capabilites in UAV flying almost 20 years back.

  • NCC 1983
    Best NCC Cadet Award

    Capt A.D Manek receiving Best NCC Cadet Award by hands of former Cricketer Shri. Mahdav Mantri, uncle of former Cricketer Shri. Sunil Gavaskar

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    2nd October 1981

    Air Cadet Exchange Program

    Civil Air Patrol (CAP), Auxillary US Air Force


    "I missed my chance to be with CAP, USA but I made a path for others to follow." - Capt AD Manek

    In the year 1981 Capt AD Manek helped Government of India, Ministry of Defense by providing very important information on making "India" as a member country of International Air Cadet Exchange Association of Great Britain to allow NCC (Air Wing Cadets) of India to take part in Internation Air Cadet Exchange program of Civil Air Patrol (CAP), Auxillary US Air Froce, USA.

    Capt AD Manek was awarded a Merit for his Services by the National Cadet Corps


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    21st October 1987

    Educational Loan for Commercial Pilot Training

    Social Welfare Department, Govt of Gujarat


    "Govt of Gujarat heard my proposal and agreed to begin financial assistance for pilot training to all students including me." - Capt AD Manek

    In the year 1987 Capt AD Manek pursued Government of Gujarat to launch a scheme of educational loan for pursuing Commerical Pilot License Training in India and Abroad for deserving Students. He met former Chief Minister Hon. Shri. Amarsinh Chaudhary and presented the case, as a result scheme of Educational Loan was launched by the government. As of today 57 students have benefited under this scheme.

    Capt AD Manek was the first recipient under this scheme. He is most satisfied to see his efforts helping other students.


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    2nd February 1988

    Foreign Exchange Permit for Trainee Pilots

    Reserve Bank of India (RBI)


    "RBI heard my plea and abolished Foreign Exchange permit rule for trainee pilots going abroad. Thank you" - Capt AD Manek

    In the year 1988 Capt AD Manek pursued Government of India, Ministry of finance to abolish rules for granting Foreign Exchange Permit to Trainee Pilots. Earlier only employees of Airlines were eligible for this permit. Due to this many young Trainee pilots were deprived of going to the USA for further training . He personally visited Prime Minister Office (PMO) and met the then Prime Minister Hon. Shri. Rajiv Gandhi. He also met the Finance Minister Hon Shri. N.D.Tiwari, RBI Governor Mr. R.N.Malhotra and Secretary, Dept of Economic Affairs Mr J.L. Bajaj Ministry of Finance and made them to understand to abolish the rule of Foreign Exchange Permit of RBI, Government of Inidia.

    Capt AD Manek was the first recepient as a Non-Employee of an Airline to get Foriegn Exchange Permit for pursuing his Pilot Training in the US. He is most happy to see that RBI has now abolished the rule completely.


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    24th July 1992

    International Airport Navi Mumbai

    CIDCO, Navi Mumbai

    "Congratulation CIDCO. My intial interest of developing a private aerodrome at Nerul has lead to the development of an International Airport. I am happy!"
    - Capt AD Manek

    In the year 1992 Capt AD Manek approached CIDCO, Navi Mumbai Authority and gave proposal to construct private aerodrome for pilot training activities. CIDCO gave permission to construct an aerodrome but due to resitrictions of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India the dream of private aerodrome at Nerul was scrapped. This Idea of construction of aerodrome made way for planning the International Airport at Navi Mumbai which is likely to begin construction work shortly.

    Capt AD Manek's dream for a private aerodrome did not materialise but he is extememly pleased that his efforts have led to a new and much needed International Airport for the city of Mumbai.


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    17th July 2007

    Brazil Airport Accident

    Click here for further details.

    The Aircraft was an Airbus A320 operating as a scheduled domestic passenger flight between Porto Alegre and São Paulo, Brazil, which crashed upon landing during rain in São Paulo. The twin-engined turbofan aircraft overran the runway, crossed a major thoroughfare during rush hour, crashed at high speed into a TAM Express warehouse adjacent to a gas station and exploded. Capt A.D Manek was asked to identify probable cause of the accident.


    Date: 17th July 2007
    Call Sign: TAM 3054

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    7th August 2010

    Mumbai Airport hazards

    Click here for further details.

    Water-logging and potholes on the runway led to one flight being diverted, while two were made to do go-arounds, delaying flight schedules throughout the day.The downpour seriously affected the functioning of the main runway 09-27. A 100 metre stretch at the beginning of runway 09 was pockmarked by afternoon, forcing its closure from 12.40pm to 1pm for emergency repair works. Capt A.D Maneks opinion was requested


    Date: 7th August 2010
    Call Sign: All Aircrafts

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    28th December 2010

    Bird Hit Juhu Aerodrome

    Click here for further details.

    Juhu Aerodorme located in the heart of Mumbai is a major hub for corporate travellers, general aviation and for helicopters yet the state of the airport lies in shambals. It is a disaster in the waiting with so many birds flying around and with animal incursions. News channels turned to Capt A.D Manek for his expertise


    Date: 28th December 2010
    Call Sign: All Aircrafts

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    30th December 2010

    No Alcohol Rule Requirement

    Click here for further details.

    Indian pilots were found to be drunk on duty during surprise alcohol checks before flight. Alcohol levels in the blood cannot exceed 0.04% ppa. This is a major safety issue with countless lives hanging in the balance. The reason the law was flouted so often was because of no strict law being enforced by the DGCA. Airlines would avoid punishing their pilots as it would effect their flights. Capt A.D Manek throws some light on how important it is to get some strict rule passed as soon as as possible


    Date: 30th December 2010
    Call Sign: All Aircrafts

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    7th November 2014

    Surat Airport Accident

    Click here for further details.

    140 passengers of a Delhi-bound SpiceJet flight from Surat had a narrow escape on when the aircraft hit a stray buffalo on the runway, as it was about to take-off. Due to the hit, the aircraft's engine suffered damage and the take-off had to be aborted. The incident occurred around 7 pm. News channels turned to Capt A.D Manek for his expertise


    Date: 7th November 2014
    Call Sign: SG 622

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    26th January 2001

    Gujarat Earthquake Disaster

    Click here for further details

    The 2001 Gujarat earthquake occurred on 26 January, India's 52nd Republic Day, at 08:46 AM IST and lasted for over 2 minutes. The epicentre was about 9 km south-southwest of the village of Chobari in Bhachau Taluka of Kutch District of Gujarat, India. The intraplate earthquake reached 7.7 on the moment magnitude scale and had a maximum felt intensity of X on the Mercalli intensity scale.

    The death toll in Kutch was 12,300. Bhuj, which was situated only 20km away from the epicenter, was devastated. Considerable damage also occurred in Bhachau and Anjar with hundreds of villages flattened in Taluka of Anjar, Bhuj & Bhachau. Over a million structures were damaged or destroyed, including many historic buildings and tourist attractions. The quake destroyed around 40% of homes, eight schools, two hospitals and 4 km of road in Bhuj and partly destroyed the city's historic Swaminarayan temple and historic fort as well Prag Mahal and Aina Mahal. In Ahmedabad, Gujarat's commercial capital with a population of 5.6 million, as many as 50 multi-storied buildings collapsed and several hundred people were killed. Total property damage was estimated at $5.5 billion and rising.

    It was during this time that Capt AD Manek left all other work and dedicated months to the relief work. Due to the massive devistation all landlines to and from Gujarat were severed. The only form of communication was wireless radio. Capt AD Manek being a HAM Radio operator started co-ordinating relief work and rescue plans to remote parts of the state. Many families were able to get in contact with their near and dear ones because of such efforts by HAM Radio operators.


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    26th December 2004

    Indian Ocean Tsunami

    Click here for further details

    The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake occurred at 00:58:53 UTC on 26 December with an epicentre off the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia.The event is known by the scientific community as the Sumatra–Andaman earthquake. The resulting tsunami was given various names, including the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami

    With a magnitude of Mw 9.1–9.3, it is the third-largest earthquake ever recorded on a seismograph. The earthquake had the longest duration of faulting ever observed, between 8.3 and 10 minutes. It caused the entire planet to vibrate as much as 1 centimetre and triggered other earthquakes as far away as Alaska. According to the U.S. Geological Survey a total of 227,898 people died. Nations all over the world provided over US$14 billion in aid for damaged regions.

    The 2004 Tsunami was a wake up call for the world at just how dangerous and devastating natural disasters can be. It also showcased how unprepared we are for such hazards. The relief work required for such a huge operation covering thousands of kilometers could only be done through wireless communications. This time Capt AD Manek contribution was at a global scale. He helped not only various citizens but various militrary organizations from across the world. He also helped many inter-governmental communications with the Help of HAM radio. This information is never shared by Capt AD Manek as he feels that its his duty towards mankind which does not require any form of recognition or award.


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    26th July 2005

    Mumbai Floods

    Click here for further details

    On 26 July 2005, around 2:00 p.m. the Mumbai Metropolitan Region was struck by a severe storm and subsequent deluge. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) station in Santacruz recorded 944 mm. of rain for the 24 hours ending 8:30 a.m. on 27 July. The Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai [MCGM] control room started receiving phone calls reporting the heavy rain and subsequent water logging in suburban areas.

    Large numbers of people were stranded on the road, lost their homes, and many walked long distances back home from work that evening. The floods were caused by the eighth heaviest, ever recorded 24-hour rainfall figure of 944 mm which lashed the metropolis on 26 July 2005, and intermittently continued for the next day.The 2005 Maharashtra floods refers to the flooding of many parts of the Indian state of Maharashtra including large areas of the metropolis Mumbai a city located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, on the Western coast of India, in which approximately 1,094 people died

    Capt AD Manek, a resident of Mumbai, immediately rushed in to help in any way possible. Inspite of heavy flooding in surrounding areas he rushed to open Skyline Aviation Club which also serves as a Government of India emergency wireless station. From here he helped the Goverment of Maharashtra by keeping them up to date about current scenario and places which need urgent help.


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    2nd August 2007

    Kashmir Landslide

    Click here for futher details

    Barely six months after devastating floods killed 250 people and displaced tens of thousands, the people of Kashmir face a new crisis. Torrential rainfall over the past week have caused vicious landslides across the region, killing at least 16 people and forcing hundreds of families to evacuate, bringing the region again to a standstill. At least 20 camps have been set up and people have been asked to shift to higher-ground.

    In the village of Ledhan, 40km away from the capital Srinagar, a house collapsed while three families were asleep. Six bodies were recovered. Mudslides also reportedly struck homes in Chadoor, 15km away from Srinagar. In Srinagar, more than 200 people had to evacuate their homes as the Jhelum river burst its banks and threatened to destroy this shattered city. Residents could be seen fleeing at night, or trying to barricade their stores from rising water levels, barely months after much of the region was submerged by the worst foods in a century. More than a million people were affected by the floods in September, and around 180,000 houses were damaged. When the rains returned this week, Kashmiris were panic-struck. They had barely recovered from the last one.

    Kashmir's high altitude terrain proved very difficult for all rescue operators and miltary personal. In fact most of the roads leading to kashmir were either damaged or blocked due to the landslide. Capt AD Manek provided helicopter airlift services and emergency supplies to the people of Kashmir. He also set up HAM radio operations for connecting Kashmiris with their relatives all across the globe.


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    Airline Career Guidance Seminars

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    Out of a population of almost 1 billion the number of aviatiors in India are just a few thousands. Most of the the youth dont even know that such a field exists and that its not diffuclt to get in it.

    Capt Manek was left without any guidance when he was young and he doesnt want that to happen to todays generation. He has taken it upon himself to educate the masses and spreading awarness about the aviation sector and its benifits. Capt Manek has travelled across the country and held multiple seminars for various school and organisations. He has conducted over 200 seminars till date and is still continuing to do so with the same energy and zeel

    Some of the places that he has conducted seminars are: Ahmedabad, Baroda, Surat, Bhavnagar, Rajkot, Bharuch, Vyara,Valab Vidyanagar, Anand, Khopoli, Navsari, Mumbai, Indore, Panvel, Delhi, Kerala, Chennai, Trivandrum, etc.

    Some of the Organisations he has conducted seminars for are: Rotary Club, Lions Club, Youth Hostel ASsociation of India, JCI, ComAir, Times of India Education Botique, National Commision for Schedule Caste Govt of India, Social Welfare Department Govt of Gujarat etc. in addition to various schools and colleges across India

    Till now almost 5 Lakh people, parents and students have benifited from airline career guindance in India and abroad


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    The Skyline Aviation Club

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    Capt.A.D.Manek founded The Skyline Aviation Club in 1987. He is currently presiding as Managing Trustee and Chief Advisor of The Skyline Aviation Club, Mumbai.

    Born in 1961, he had ambition of becoming a pilot since child hood. His tryst with aviation started with a visit to a flying club to find out how to become a pilot in 1979. He acquired his Private Pilot's License from DGCA in 1985 in India. He was able to complete his Commercial Pilot's Certificate training with Instrument Rating, Multi Engine Rating and Instructor Rating from U.S.A in 1989.

    Due to lack of information, Guidance and proper training it took ten years to make his dream come true as a commercial Pilot. He took up job for a short time with Air India Employees Guild Training Center, Mumbai as a Principal. The strong reason behind formation of The Skyline Aviation Club is to help new comers to achieve their goal of becoming a pilot in shortest possible time by giving them proper information, guidance and best available training which Capt.A.D.Manek missed in making his career.

    For more Information about The Skyline Aviation club please visit www.skylineaviation.training


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    Airport and ATC Visits

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    Book knowledge is not everything espeically in a very technical field such as aviation. Seeing is believing and thats what Capt Manek strongly beleives in. Students should be completely exposed to the aviation world by showing them real life situations and operations

    Capt Manek has been in the field for almost 30 years and with this comes alot of expertiese and knowledge. His place in the Indian Aviation sector and as a HAM radio operator allows him great freedom in accessing sensitve data and areas. for example the Mumbai ATC which is highly restricted and sensitive area. Students get to visit and learn about the busy skies of Mumbai from the various officers of the Tower. From Surface Movement Control to Weather Charts students are given the best possible exposure to Aviation from a young age

    Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport, is the primary international airport serving the Mumbai Metropolitan Area, India. It is the second busiest airport in the country in terms of passenger traffic and international traffic after Delhi, and was the 47th busiest airport in the world by passenger traffic in 2014 according to Airports Council International. The airport is still the busiest in the country in terms of cargo traffic.The airport has five operating terminals spread over an operational area of 750 hectares and handles more than 780 aircraft movements per day.


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    Discovery Flights

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    Flying is a field for which you need passion. And Capt Manek is very passionate about it. He believes that if someone wants to fly nobody should be able to stop that person

    He arranges many first flights and joy rides for deserving students. These students have shown a calibre for this intense field but may not be able to afford the cost of training. Capt Manek helps such student realize their dreams. The feeling of flying is something that is very hard to describe and it must be experienced by oneself. Once you fly you will forever look to the skies with a longing to go back there!


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    Airshows & Demonstration

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    Flying is a field for which you need passion. And Capt Manek is very passionate about it. He believes that if someone wants to fly nobody should be able to stop that person

    He arranges many first flights and joy rides for deserving students. These students have shown a calibre for this intense field but may not be able to afford the cost of training. Capt Manek helps such student realize their dreams. The feeling of flying is something that is very hard to describe and it must be experienced by oneself. Once you fly you will forever look to the skies with a longing to go back there!


The National Cadet Corps is the Indian military cadet corps with its Headquarters at New Delhi. It is open to school and college students on voluntary basis. National Cadet Corps is a Tri-Services Organization, comprising the Army, Navy and Air Force, engaged in grooming the youth of the country into disciplined and patriotic citizens. The National Cadet Corps in India is a voluntary organization which recruits cadets from high schools, colleges and Universities all over India. The Cadets are given basic military training in small arms and parades. The officers and cadets have no liability for active military service once they complete their course but are given preference over normal candidates during selections based on the achievements in the corps.

The NCC in India was formed with the National Cadet Corps Act of 1948. It was raised on 15 July 1948. The origin of NCC can be traced back to the University Corps, which was created under the Indian Defence Act 1917, with the objective to make up the shortage of the Army. In 1920, when the Indian Territorial Act was passed, the University Corps was replaced by the University Training Corps (UTC). The aim was to raise the status of the UTC and make it more attractive to the youth. The UTC Officers and cadets dressed like the army. It was a significant step towards the Indianisation of armed forces.

During Indo-Pakistani war of 1965 & Bangladesh-Pakistani war of 1971, NCC cadets were second line of defense. They organized camp to assist ordnance factories, supplying arms and ammunition to the front and also were used as patrol parties to capture enemy paratroopers. The NCC cadets also worked hand in hand with the Civil defence authorities and actively took part in rescue works and traffic control.

After 1965 and 1971 wars NCC syllabus was revised. Rather than just being second line of defense, NCC syllabus laid greater stress on developing quality of leadership and officer like qualities. The motto of NCC is 'Unity & Discipline' which was adopted on 23 Dec 1957. The NCC strives to be and is one of the greatest cohesive forces of the nation, bringing together the youth hailing from different parts of the country and moulding them into united, secular and disciplined citizens of the nation.

Capt Manek underwent NCC training between 1974 and 1984. Tensions between India and its neighbours were high and the country required well trained and brave men to fight on the front lines. Capt Maneks dream was to fly with the Air force and serve the nation but sadly during those times he wasnt given the proper guidance nor training required to become a fighter pilot. His determination to serve the nation was so strong that he joint the NCC army division.

Here Capt Manek underwent rigorous and gruelling training which included dessert warfare, weapons and ammunition handling, army vehicle training and horse riding among other skills. Capt Manek is a quick learner and even in those days with no prior knowledge or experience he was able to grasp all the skills quickly. The will to fight for the nation made him excel in all his training. Capt Manek was awarded the best cadet of the state of Maharastra and felicitated by famous former cricketer Mr.Mahdav Mantri, uncle of former cricket legend Mr.Sunil Gavaskar. Till date Capt Manek is ready to fight for the counrty at moments notice. Jai Hind!

Amateur Radio is the hobby counterpart of the industry of Radio Communication, just as Aero- Modelling is a hobby related to the aircraft industry. Basically amateur radio is a scientific hobby of wireless communication between citizens by means of a private two way radio for personal communications through out the world. Amateur Radio is also known as HAM Radio.

Radio transmitters and receivers are the equipment required for communciation. To isntall manitain and use transmitters and receivers, the applicant is first required to undergo training and pass examination conducted by the Ministry of Communication, Govt of India.
On passing the examination the Govt of India will issue the wireless license. A License holder can establish a radio station at his home or on a motorbike or in a car. With a simple Rs.1000 WT radio transmitter a person can communicate with any person in any corner of the world.

License holders can talk/discuss through wireless with any Amateur Radio Operator around the world legally. There are more than 12000 licensed Indian Citizens who have private wireless sets. If you compare this figure with foreign countries like Japan, USA, UK and Russia they have HAM Radio oeprators in the Lakhs.

It is a bit difficult to count the benefits one gets in this hobby. This is a hobby of King Hussein of jordon, Ex-Prime Minister Late Shri Rajiv Gandhi and celebrated actor Amitabh Bachchan of india and like wise many well-known figures of the world including pilots, doctors, engineers, astronauts, mountaineers and many electronic brains of the world with whom you can make friends.

Moreover an operator can increase his knowledge in his own speicalized field. Oe one can make a carrer in electronics, telecommunications, science and modern techology fields by becoming a scientist. Apart from all this, one can help the nation in natural calamaites like cyclones, floods, earthquakes, fires and emergency medical services etc, by using his wireless set for immediate communication and win many awards and prizes.

Capt A.D Manek has helped and participated in many of the rescue operations during calamities in India such as the Gujarat Earthquake, Kashmir landslide and Mumbai floods. During these times vital communications landlines break down and cell towers stop being operational. This is when HAM Radio oeprators selflessly dedicate themselves to the nation providing a vital link to rescue operations. We thank Capt Manek for his service to the Nation in the time of desperate need.

This is a very nobble hobby. Pursuing this hobby opens the creative mind of the child to choose a flying career like Air Force Pilot or a Civil Airlines Pilot or an Aeronautical Engineer. In Western countries, especially in Europe, it is a compulsory curriculum of the school acitivty. This acitivity teaches fundamental aerodynamics, Principles of flight, Weight and balance, External and Internal parts of an Airplane and its engine. This is known as Model Engineering. Students develop interest towards an aviation career while practicing this hobby.

A model aircraft is a small sized unmanned aircraft or, in the case of a scale model, a replica of an existing or imaginary aircraft. Model aircraft are divided into two basic groups: flying and non-flying. Non-flying models are also termed static, display, or shelf models.
Flying models range from simple toy gliders made of card stock or foam polystyrene to powered scale models made from materials such as balsa wood, bamboo, plastic, styrofoam, carbon fiber or fibreglass and are skinned with tissue paper or mylar covering. Some can be very large, especially when used to research the flight properties of a proposed full scale design.

Static models range from mass-produced toys in white metal or plastic to highly accurate and detailed models produced for museum display and requiring thousands of hours of work. Many models are available in kit form, typically made of injection-moulded polystyrene. Aircraft manufacturers and researchers also make wind tunnel models not capable of free flight, used for testing and development of new designs. Sometimes only part of the aircraft is modelled.

Capt A.D Manek has been part of the Aero modelling industry from almost 30 years now. He has held airshows for many companies and consortiums which include National geographic and the Indian Airforce. These shows not only provide a very captivating show but also the aviation prowess of the country. He has one many awards for these air shows and still continues to actively take part in air shows help around the world. He recently was invited as VIP Guest in the Gujarat Aero-conclave which is one of India's largest Aerospace gathering. Companies such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing and Airbus participate here showing off their latest and greatest.

This Conclave had many different Aero modelling displays showing the latest and greatest in the world of Aviation. These models showcased the future of Aviation with supersonic flight models and large scale models of the Airbus A350. Being a veteran of the industry Capt Manek was called to privide his opinion to the Govt of Gujarat reguarding where India should focus when it comes to its own Aviaiton Industry.

One of the other thriving Industry in which Aero Modelling is used on an almost daily basis is the Film industry. Have you ever seen death defying stunt involving airplanes and helicopters? have you ever wondered how they can afford to do those stunts with such complex and expensive multi million dollar aircrafts? Well the answer is Aero Modelling and camera tricks. Exact scaled replicas of these aircrafts are flown by experienced Aero Model handlers such as Capt A.D Manek and stunts are performed, rest is all movie magic!

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    Paragliding

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    Paragliding is the recreational and competitive adventure sport of flying paragliders: lightweight, free-flying, foot-launched glider aircraft with no rigid primary structure. The pilot sits in a harness suspended below a fabric wing comprising a large number of interconnected baffled cells
    Capt A.D Manek has done paragliding many times in his life. His Children, Check Pilot Nirav Manek and Capt Ankur Manek have been exposed to the world of aviation from the very beginning.


    Date: 30th May 1995
    Place: Jivdani Hill, Virar, Thane

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    Para Plane

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    A paraplane is a type of ultralight aircraft that consists of a parachute with a motor and wheels. The aircraft's airspeed is typically about 40–60 km/hr. They operate safely at heights ranging from a few feet off the ground to altitudes as high as 10,000+ feet. Equipped with the standard 5 or 10 gallon fuel tank, they can typically be flown for about three hours. They have very short take-off and landing rolls, sometimes less than 100 ft.
    Capt Manek being an aviation enthusiast that he is not only flew the Para Plane but built it himself.


    Date: 7th November 1996
    Place: Hiranandani Grounds, Malad, Mumbai

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    Microlight

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    Microlight aviation called Ultralight aviation in some countries, is the flying of lightweight, 1 or 2 seat fixed-wing aircraft. In most affluent countries, microlights or ultralight aircraft now account for a significant percentage of the global civilian-owned aircraft. Microlights have strut-braced wings and airframe structure. Nearly all use 3-axis control systems, as used on standard airplanes, and these are the most popular.
    Capt Manek is a certified pilot with permission from the DGCA to fly and manintain microlights. He has said that microlights give him a different sense of freedom in flight that no other aircraft gives.


    Date: 22nd June 1998
    Place: Sea Beach, Dahanu, Maharashtra

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    Gliders

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    A glider is a heavier-than-air aircraft that is supported in flight by the dynamic reaction of the air against its lifting surfaces, and whose free flight does not depend on an engine. Most gliders do not have an engine, although motor-gliders have small engines for extending their flight when necessary and some are even powerful enough to take off.
    Glider flying requires high level of skill and confidence in flying. Airline pilots sometimes find it difficult to fly a glider. Capt Manek uses all his experience and piloting skills to make these birds fly. Capt Manek while talking about gliders once said "The sense of achievement one gets after a successful landing of a glider is something extraordinary and very few pilots are able to achieve it."


    Date: 15th February 1999
    Place: Deolali Gliding Club, Nashik

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    Hot Air Balloon

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    The hot air balloon is the oldest successful human-carrying flight technology. The first untethered manned hot air balloon flight was performed by Jean-François Pilâtre de Rozier and François Laurent d'Arlandes on November 21, 1783, in Paris, France, in a balloon created by the Montgolfier brothers. Hot air balloons that can be propelled through the air rather than simply drifting with the wind are known as thermal airships. A hot air balloon consists of a bag called the envelope that is capable of containing heated air. Suspended beneath is a gondola or wicker basket a source of heat, in most cases an open flame.
    Capt Manek has always been passionate about the history of aviation. Balloon flying is when man first got to fly. He had to do fly a balloon to experience it.


    Date: 8th March 2000
    Place: Vanasthali Vidyapeth, Jaipur

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