Managing Trustee
The Skyline Aviation Club
Capt AD Manek is the founder of "The Skyline Aviation Club", established in the year 1987. He is currently presiding as Managing Trustee and Chief Advisor of The Skyline Aviation Club, Mumbai.
Born in 1961, he had an ambition to become a pilot since childhood. His tryst with aviation started with a visit to Bombay 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.
He also completed his training in Aircraft Dispatcher from Institute of Flight Operations & Dispatch (IFOD), Texas, USA. in 2008.
Click here to read success story of Capt AD Manek
The Skyline Aviation Club
The Skyline Aviation Club
Indian Aviation Academy
Fly High Aviation Club
Life Insurance Coproration of India
National Water Development Agency
Pharm Chem Distributors
Offices
Plastic Ring Factory, Mumbai
Agricultural Child labourer
Certified Aircraft Dispatcher
iFOD, Texas, USA
HAM Radio Operator Grade I
Ministry of Communication & IT, Govt. Of India
Certified Pilot Instructor
Aviation Training Inc, USA
Commercial Pilot Certificate
Aviation Training Inc, USA
"C" Certificate Holder
Ministry of Defence, Govt of India
Bachelor of Commerce
Chinai College, Mumbai University
Bandra Urdu Junior College
Bandra, Mumbai
St. Joseph High School
Malad East, Mumbai
Vardha Rashtriya Shala
Manekpore, Gujarat
Prathmik Shala, Shingi Faliya
Vyara, Gujarat
National President & Trustee
MVM, India
Aviation-In-Charge
Bharatiya Janata Party, Surat
Lifetime Member of Lions Club
International
Indo-American Society
Mumbai, India
Founder & Trustee
Chetaniya Mahakali Temple
Aeronautical Society of India
New Delhi, India
Federation of Indian Pilots
Mumbai, India
Amateur Radio Society of India
Bangalore
Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association
United States of America
American Central Library
Mumbai
Capt A.D Manek's life is a true "Rag to Riches" story.
Explore it in detail here:
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 1961Birth of the first child is always special for parents. They were extremely happy at the birth of their son.
1961His grandparents in their traditional Gujarati attire.
1961In 1960, India had recently attained Independence and state of Gujarat was formed. Stayed in a small hut along with 7 other family members
1961Worked on farms and studied under oil lamps
1962With maternal grandmother and aunt at the annual mela that was held at the village, Vyara.
1964Vyara was part of Maharaja Sayajirao's Kingdom. Student life was very different and included alot of labour work.
1967The family owned livestock were marginal farmers doing multiple labour work to sustain themselves.
1968Traditional village hut made of mud flooring, cow dung and bamboo walls and roof of clay plates over thached hay.
1969Studied from 2nd standard to 7th standard and appeared for the Gujarat board exam here.
1972SamuJivan - 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
1973Being 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
1974Came to Mumbai chasing his dreams. Started off as a child labourer in the construction field
1975Knowledge is the only way out of poverty and success. He worked hard at school while doing part time odd jobs.
1977His father played a pivotal role in teaching and shaping him into a deeply family oriented and hard working person
1978A young man, both fashionable and energetic; appeared for his SSC exam in this year
March 1978Cultural Exchange where he met and learnt alot from them.
1979One of the key aspects of becoming successful is to be heard. From the very beginning he was an excellent orator.
1980The 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.
1980National Cadet Corp is a world famous army training center. The training is very gruelling and intense, and many drop out mid way.
1981With 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
1981Capt AD Manek's Nation Cadet Corp batch.
1982With First Indian Pilot Shri JRD Tata
15th Oct 1982Part of the NCC program.
1983Training included Gun and rifle shooting.
1983Successfully completed 3 years NCC Military Trainning and passed "C" Certificate of NCC under Ministry of Defence, Govt of India.
1984Receiving Best NCC Cadet Award by hands of former Cricketer Shri. Mahdav Mantri uncle of former Cricketer Shri. Sunil Gavaskar
1984Married Mrs. Kumud Manek promising her a happy and prosperous life.
1984Happy with what they had, he strived to give his family the best and worked hard for it
1984Began a journey filled with obstacles and hurdles of 15 years to achieve his dream
1984The orginal license that was issued by the Govt of India to Capt AD Manek. All the struggles were worth it.
1984After all the hardship and years of struggle he finally began to live his dream of flying with eagles
1985The time when flying was a luxury and was meant for the super rich, training was available on old aircrafts like the Pushpak.
1985Acharya Devobhava - A Teacher is God. Forever grateful for the lessons he learnt from his instructor during his early days of flying in India
1985Capable of flying an aircraft on his own as Pilot In Command
1985Established a training institute for pilots The Skyline aviation club .
1987First Lecture to a batch of future pilots
1987Humble beginnings to a glamorous career
1987With 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
1988Went to USA to pursue his commerical flight training
1988Went to Hayward, California USA for advanced training.
1989First batch of Private pilot students. Most of them are now senior captains in various airlines
1991His idol, First Pilot of India Shri JRD Tata on the occasion of Diamond Jublee Celebration (60 years) of Civil Aviation in India
15th Oct 1992First batch of commercial pilots. Most of them are now senior captains in various airlines
1993A decade of teaching and guiding young students about aviation. Students and aviatiors felicitated Capt AD Manek.
15th Oct 1997Organised Airshow for the Indian Airforce. Gp. Capt Arjun Das of the Airforce inaugurated the show Airforce Station Madh Island, Mumbai
8th Oct 1999Ever 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 2000Visit to Emirates Flight School in Dubai, UAE
2000Provided rescue cordination and communications assistance through HAM radio to the various Government Departments
26th Jan 2001With 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 2001With 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.
2002The Skyline Aviation Club became globally acclaimed for its excellent pilot training. Official from Australia and New Zealand on his visit to the club
2003Dr. Vijaypat Singhania, Chairman Raymonds on the 100th Anniversary of Wright Brothers Flight at the opening of aviation museum in Mumbai
17th December 2003Capt AD Manek and The Skyline Aviation Club felicitated by then Civil Aviation Minister Shri Praful Patel
2004Flower showering over devotees of Brahmakumaris on the occasion of opening of Brahmakumari Center, Borivali, Mumbai
2004Highlighting 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.
2004With Mrs Kumud Manek, a keen aviator herself. Here seen at Boeing Aircraft Manufacturing Company, Seattle, USA
2006Visit the to beautiful country of Canada.
2006Visit to San Francisco, USA. After almost 18 years, visited the place where he was trained, this time as a successful aviator.
2006Represented Delta Connection Academy owned by Delta Airline, USA. Here seen with Mr. Gabriel Garcis, CEO in Florida, USA
2006Visited London with family
2006Visited United Kingdom and met Mr. Mike Grieson, the Head of CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) at CAA HQ, Gatwick Airport
2006Interviewed 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
2007With the founder of Air Deccan Airlines, Capt Gopinath
2007Trip to Melbourne Australia.
2007Trip to Wellington, New Zealand.
2007Visit to NASA space center Houston, Texas USA
23rd Mar 2008Visit to NASA space center Houston, Texas USA
23rd Mar 2008Recognised 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 2008With Late Shri Ashok Bhatt former Speaker Vidhan Sabha, Government Of Gujarat
12th Jan 2009With Bollywood Actor Shatrugan Sinha
12th Jan 2009With 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 2009With Bollywood - Creative Direction for Areial shots. Actor Dev Anand
24th Apr 2009Felicitation 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 2009Produced 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 2010Received 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 2010With Shri Ganpatbhai Vasava, Speaker, Vidhansabha, Government of Gujarat
20th June 2011"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 2011Appointed 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 2012Visited his native village as a successful man.
28th Feb 2014Received Award by Chess Master Viswanathan Anand for the Most Promising Pilot Training Institute in Mumbai
31st May 2014At the helm of an Airbus A320. His own student was the commander of the flight.
15th Aug 2014Capt 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 2014No pilot can forget their first flight in a Cessna. He routinely takes his Cessna 172 for joy rides around Shirpur
6th Nov 2014Where 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 2015Being 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 2015Capt AD Manek and family. All aviation lovers. All highly succesful aviators.
CurrentCapt A.D Manek is a veteran of the Aviation Industry garnering many awards and honour over his illustrious career spanning more than 30 years
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.
It took Capt AD Manek 15 years to achieve his goal and dream of flying. Why did it take so long? It took so long because of the many hurdles and obstacles in the way of students trying to achieve something which the society didnt want them to. Only airline pilots children were allowed to become new pilots. Capt AD Manek fought his way through various established procedures. For example he got the Indian government to change the policy of currency exchange for students travelling Internationally. These are some of his achievements.
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
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.
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.
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.
See what various publications from all across India have to say about Capt AD Manek. here are some of the newspaper and magazine articles featuring Capt AD Manek
Over his illustrious career of 30 years Capt A.D Manek has gained valuable and precious insight into the the Aviation Sector. His recommendations and comments have proved an important source for the improvement for Civil Aviation Sector in India. These are some of the interviews by leading news broadcasting channels from all around the world
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
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
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
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
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
Capt A.D Manek is not only an Aviation Expert but also a Highly Decorated Patriotic Citizen of India. For him, service to the Nation comes first. From being the state's Best Cadet in the National Cadet Corps to Amateur Radio operations, Capt Manek is always ready to serve the Nation. These are some of his services to the Nation he provided as a Grade I HAM Radio Operator of The Govt of India.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Education is the most powerful weapon for changing the world. Capt AD Manek gets immense joy is teaching and educating young minds. His road to becoming an aviator was gruelling and took over 15 years. He has made it his lifes goal to make the process easier for students to achieve their wings. Here are some of his educational services for the developement and growth of Civil Aviation in India.
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
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
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.
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!
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!
Capt A.D Manek was born to a poor family with just the bare minimum to live life. His astonishing rise to fame and fortune has not made him forget his roots. Capt Manek is always giving back to the society in one way or the other, be it Education, National Serivce, Social Welfare, Religious or Spiritual services.
When it comes to the Nation, Capt AD Manek is ready to give his life for it. Patriotism runs deep in his blood. The period in which Capt Manek was born inculcated in him a strong sense of pride and duty towards the Nation. The NCC played a very important role in his life. It made him realise that anything is possible through hard work and perseverance. He often suggest that all children should undergo NCC training to live a happy and disciplined life.
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!
Capt AD Manek has always been fascinated with Radios and its workings. Not many people know what is Amateur Radio operations and how vital it is for a nation to have them. As a civilian this is the best way to serve your nation in the time of natural disasters. Through hard work and rigourous selection process one can become a Amateur radio operator. Exposing young children to HAM radio operations gives them a whole new appreciation for communication skills. These children become better orators in life.
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.
One of Capt A.D Maneks favourite hobbies is Aero Modelling. Not many people know that such a field exists, nor do they know that its an entire industry and a very rewarding career option. Aero Modelling is used extensively in Aircraft demonstrations and in the Film industry. He often says that pursuing aero modelling at school level increases creativity in children and encourages them to be aeronautical engineers or pilots.
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!
In Short... If it Flies, Capt Manek has Flown it!
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
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
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
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
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