The foundation of Vadodara’s aviation dreams was laid in the 1930s, during the reign of the forward-thinking Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III. A passionate flying enthusiast, Maharaja Sayajirao’s vision for aviation was solidified in 1936 when he visited the Berlin Olympics. During this visit, he signed a significant Baroda-Berlin pact, enlisting the expertise of German scientists and engineers. In the same spirit, he also established a partnership with the German glider manufacturing company, Decota (Dakota), which led to the establishment of a manufacturing unit in Vadodara in 1939.
Establishing the Baroda Aerodrome
The concept of the Baroda Aerodrome took flight in 1936 when Captain Eden of the Aeronautical Training Center of India evaluated several potential sites in Vadodara, including Gorva, Harni, and Warasiya. After careful consideration of soil quality, land availability, and other factors, the Harni site was chosen for its ideal conditions and affordability. Construction of the aerodrome was completed in 1937, with essential features such as a landing ground, boundary marks, wire fencing, approach roads, picketing base, and a three-room office building. The total cost for these developments was Rs. 1,15,000, while the Baroda Government allocated Rs. 2,95,000 for constructing two solid runways with French drains and installing a wireless station. The Harni Aerodrome was inaugurated on October 20, 1937, with initial services provided by airlines such as Tata Airways, Indian National Airways Limited, and Air Services of India Ltd.
German Glider Manufacturing and Its Impact
In 1939, the German glider manufacturing company established its base at the Harni site, setting up a facility in what is now the Post Office Colony area. The manufacturing unit was four times the size of the current airport, reflecting the ambition to produce aircraft in the future. However, operations were curtailed due to the outbreak of World War II, which led to the expulsion of German manufacturers. Remnants of the glider hanger (wall) can still be seen in the Post Office Colony opposite the current Harni Airport.
One can also view engine, its parts & body of Baroda State Glider that was made in 1940’s at the Faculty of Technology & Engineering Faculty of The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (Kalabhavan).
Expanding Aviation Horizons
Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III’s vision extended beyond Vadodara, as he established aerodromes in Navsari, Amreli, and Vadnagar. This network connected distant regions of his vast empire, facilitating administrative efficiency and ease of travel for the people of Baroda State. His legacy continued with his grandson, Maharaja Pratapsinhrao Gaekwad, who, under the patronage of Maharaja Sayajirao, funded the construction of India’s first glider with a grant of 10 lakh rupees.
Transition and Growth
In 1949, following the merger of Baroda State into the Bombay Presidency, the aerodrome was transferred to the Government of Bombay. The Civil Aviation Department of India took over the maintenance of civil aerodromes in April 1950 under the Federal Integration Scheme. Indian Airlines commenced scheduled flights to and from Vadodara, linking it with Ahmedabad, Bombay, and other key airports. Additionally, the Baroda Government established a flying club to further support aviation activities.
Story of the Pioneer Flight
The Wright Brothers are credited with building and flying the first airplane, but a scientist from Bombay named Shivji Talpade constructed and successfully flew an aircraft eight years earlier from Juhu Chowpatty, Bombay. The name of his plane was “Marut Sakha,” meaning “friend of the wind.” According to legend, the Vimana, an ancient flying contraption from Hindu mythology, inspired this aircraft. Talpade received significant funding from Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III to develop the Marut Sakha, and the Maharaja traveled to Mumbai to witness its maiden flight.
This aircraft’s technology was based on mercury ions, which could be used as a power source. The story of this historic flight was also featured in the renowned publication “Kesari,” edited by Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
Modern Developments
The legacy of Vadodara’s aviation heritage continues today with the recent establishment of an International Integrated Terminal by the Civil Aviation Authority of India, an extension of the old domestic airport. This development underscores Vadodara’s enduring significance in India’s aviation history and its ongoing commitment to progress and connectivity.
Partial Sources: ‘Progress Report of Civil Aviation in Baroda State’ & Times of India
What an in-depth research….! Kuddos to the team of History Of Vadodara. I have seen the wall which is still standing strong at postal training camps. And always wondered that y such a big wall is constructed…! Today, i came to know the reality behind the standing wall…! Thanks for this information.
What an extensive research report, loved it.
Old harni airport had an open airport and small cabin was there for security checkup. Only 1 flight from mumbai used to operate and it was Avero flight.