Our Bureau
New Delhi
In a sweeping move with nationwide impact, the Indian government has revoked the security clearance of Turkish-founded Çelebi Aviation, prompting major airports across the country to rapidly transition ground-handling operations to alternative service providers. The decision, announced Thursday, comes amid escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Turkey, with officials citing national security concerns as the primary reason for the action.
Çelebi Aviation, which manages ground services at nine major airports-including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad-employs over 10,000 people in India. The company also operates one of Delhi airport’s two cargo terminals through a joint venture. Industry analysts warn that while airport operators appear prepared, the abrupt transition could lead to temporary disruptions, especially in cargo handling, potentially causing delays and increased costs for importers and exporters.
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu assured the public that efforts are underway to accommodate Çelebi’s employees with other ground-handling firms to minimize service interruptions. “All employees currently working for Çelebi at the Delhi airport will be transitioned to new employers with immediate effect and will continue under their existing terms and conditions,” said Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) in a statement. DIAL is coordinating with existing providers, including AISATS and Bird Group, to maintain uninterrupted operations.
Other airports, such as those in Bengaluru and Goa, have echoed similar commitments, stating they are working closely with current service providers and authorities to ensure operational stability.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is directly involved in the transition, issuing special passes to facilitate the movement of Çelebi staff to new agencies. Despite these assurances, some industry experts remain cautious. Mark D. Martin, CEO of Martin Consulting, warned of “rippling effects” on cargo movement and customs processing times, urging that aviation remain insulated from geopolitical disputes.
Çelebi Aviation has denied allegations regarding its ownership structure and maintains that it is majority-owned by international institutional investors, not the Turkish government.
