Aviation Expert Returns Home to RVC

If there's one thing Rockville Centre resident Michael Machat stressed during his lecture Thursday at the Cradle of Aviation Museum, it's that with determination and perseverance, anyone can soar and fly toward their dream.

In an hour-long presentation, the '65 South Side graduate spoke about his new book, "From Props to Jets," a detailed history of the aviation industry, from its beginnings with single-propeller planes to the giant commercial jets of today. 

The Rockville Centre native said he initially wanted to become a pilot, but the stringent limitations on pilots' eyesight proved to be a mountain the glasses-wearing Machat couldn't climb. Instead, he found another niche, which was following in his uncle's footsteps — an airplane designer —and drawing the massive planes that captivated him. 

Machat attributed much of his adoration of aviation to his proximity to so many major airports where he grew up.

"Growing up in Rockville Centre was very important – it's in the heart of the aerospace industry," he said. "I was just a few stops away from JFK, LaGuardia, Republic Airport and Macarthur.  There were tons of cool little places with planes. It was nirvana."

Some, like Greg Homatas of Brooklyn, drove an hour to hear the Machat speak, while others, like Jacqueline Sandler, took the trip not only to hear what Machat had to say, but give something back as well.

"I came because I wanted to show Mr. Machat this [collection of old photographs and newspaper clippings]," Sandler said. " There's original material with Amelia Earhart, Orville Wright – everyone you would ever want to know in aviation."

 Despite his inability to become a pilot, Machat said he was still able to live his dream and become a stalwart in the aviation industry.

"Aviation was my life – I don't even know how it happens," he said. "I don't even consider myself an artist.  I'm just an airplane nut who drew pictures."