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The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has revoked the security clearance of Celebi Airport Services, a ground handling firm with Turkish roots, citing national security concerns.
Celebi entered the Indian market through a joint venture at Mumbai International Airport and later expanded under three separate entities.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on May 15 revoked the security clearance of Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd, a prominent ground handling company with Turkish roots, citing national security concerns. The move comes amid rising diplomatic tensions following Turkey’s support for Pakistan in the wake of India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror camps across the border.
Why Was Security Clearance Revoked?
In its official order, the BCAS said the clearance for Celebi Airport Services India had been cancelled “in the interest of national security”. The decision closely follows Turkey and Azerbaijan backing Pakistan and condemning India’s strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Reports also suggest Pakistan employed Turkish drones during the conflict, intensifying calls within India to boycott Turkish products and tourism.
Several online platforms and travel groups have since issued advisories discouraging visits to Turkey, further reflecting public sentiment.
What Is Celebi Aviation?
Founded in 1958, Celebi Aviation is the first privately-owned ground handling company in Turkey’s aviation sector. The company now operates in over 70 airports globally, offering a wide range of services including:
- Passenger handling and wheelchair assistance
- Ramp and cargo services
- Flight operations and load control
- Airport lounge and bridge operations
- Warehouse and postal services
What Does Celebi Do in India?
Celebi entered the Indian market through a joint venture at Mumbai International Airport and later expanded under three separate entities. It registered as Celebi Airport Services India for ground handling and Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India for cargo operations.
In India, the company provides crucial aviation services such as:
- Passenger and general aviation services
- Cargo and warehouse operations
- Ramp handling and bridge management
Where Does Celebi Operate in India?
Celebi has had a presence at nine Indian airports, including Mumbai, Delhi, Cochin, Kannur, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Goa (GOX), Ahmedabad, and Chennai.
However, Delhi International Airport recently terminated ties with Celebi following the BCAS order.
Celebi’s Response
In a statement, Celebi Aviation India denied any political affiliations or foreign government links, stating: “We are not a Turkish organisation by any standard and adhere fully to globally accepted practices of corporate governance, transparency, and neutrality, with no political affiliations or links to any foreign government or individuals.”
“Celebi remains fully committed to India and to contributing meaningfully to the country’s progress as a global aviation hub. We are confident that facts, transparency, and common sense will prevail over misinformation,” it added.
However, the company did not directly comment on the revocation of its security clearance.
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