Turkish aviation firm Celebi grounded after India revokes security clearance

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security revoked Celebi’s security clearance on May 15, citing national security concerns amid rising India-Turkey tensions following Ankara’s criticism of Operation Sindoor, launched after the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam

Three of India’s major international airports — Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad — have terminated their contracts with Turkish ground-handling firm Celebi Aviation following the revocation of the company’s security clearance by the Government of India.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issued the order on May 15, citing national security concerns. The decision comes amid escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Turkey after Ankara criticized India’s recent counter-terrorism operation, Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam.

Following the directive, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) and Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) confirmed they have ended ground-handling concession agreements with Celebi. A joint statement from the two airports said, “Celebi has been directed to hand over all facilities to ensure uninterrupted operations.”

Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), which operates Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), also announced the termination of Celebi’s services. “In compliance with the BCAS directive, DIAL has ended its association with Celebi entities responsible for ground-handling and cargo services,” the company said, adding that measures are being taken to ensure a smooth transition with existing service providers.

Celebi denies political allegations

Celebi Aviation has been a key player in India’s aviation sector, providing critical ground-handling services including baggage operations, aircraft marshaling, and cargo handling at several major airports. The sudden cancellation of its contracts has prompted airports to swiftly reallocate responsibilities to other vendors to avoid disruptions.

In response to the government’s decision, Celebi Aviation India issued a public statement denying any wrongdoing and rejecting allegations of political connections. “Our Indian operations are professionally managed by Indian leadership and fully compliant with all regulations,” the company said.

Addressing rumours, Celebi clarified that it has no ties to the Turkish government or any political figures. “There is no shareholding by Ms. Sumeyye Erdogan. Ownership remains solely with the Celebioglu family, who have no political affiliations,” the statement read.

While operations continue under alternate providers, the episode underscores increasing national security scrutiny in strategic infrastructure sectors. Further reviews of foreign-linked entities in aviation are expected in the coming months.