India ends ground handling contract with Celebi at major airports over security concerns with Pakistan

UPDATE: 16/05/2025

The Indian government has revoked the security clearance of Turkish-owned Celebi Airport Services India, citing national security concerns linked to Turkey’s support for Pakistan during recent hostilities. The move, announced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, immediately halts Celebi’s ground handling operations at nine major Indian airports, including Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM), and Kempegowda International Airport (BLR).

Details on India revoking Celebi’s security clearance amid India-Pakistan tensions affecting major airports 

The decision follows public outrage and protests after Turkey and Azerbaijan expressed support for Islamabad in the wake of India’s retaliatory airstrikes on what it called “terror camps” in Pakistan. These strikes were in response to the April 22 terror attack in Kashmir that killed 26 people.

The Minister of State for Civil Aviation of India, Murlidhar Mohol, stated on the social media platform X:

“Recognising the seriousness of the issue and the call to protect national interests, we have taken cognisance of these requests and Ministry of Civil Aviation has revoked the security clearance of the said company.”

Celebi Aviation Holding, the parent company, denied any security breaches and said it intends to challenge the order. Its shares fell 10% following the announcement.

In response, DEL said it was working with alternate handlers AISATS and Brid Group to maintain operations. Meanwhile, the Shiv Sena party, a key Modi government ally, staged protests demanding an end to Celebi’s airport contracts.

Adani Airport Holdings has announced the immediate termination of its ground-handling concession agreement with Celebi at BOM and Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA). The company has directed Celebi to hand over all ground handling facilities without delay to ensure seamless operations at these key airports.

A spokesperson representing both Mumbai and Ahmedabad airports stated, “Following the Government of India’s decision to revoke Celebi’s security clearance, we have terminated the ground handling concession agreements with Celebi at CSMIA and SVPIA.” This decision comes directly after the Union government revoked the security clearance of the Turkish aviation firm.

SIGN ME UP