India Revokes Security Clearance of Turkish Ground Handling Firm Celebi Amid Diplomatic Tensions

In a significant move that underscores rising diplomatic tensions, India has revoked the security clearance of Turkish ground handling giant Celebi Airport Services India Private Limited. The decision, taken by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on Thursday, is seen as a direct response to Turkiye’s recent political stance supporting Pakistan and criticizing India’s anti-terror operations.

Why Was Celebi’s Clearance Revoked?

According to an official order issued by BCAS, the security clearance granted to Celebi Airport Services India — a wholly-owned subsidiary of Turkiye-based Celebi Aviation Holding — has been officially withdrawn with immediate effect.

This decision comes against the backdrop of Turkiye backing Islamabad in international forums and condemning India’s recent strikes on terror launchpads across the Pakistan border. The geopolitical friction appears to have now spilled over into bilateral business relations, particularly in the sensitive aviation sector.

Celebi’s Presence in Indian Aviation

Celebi has been a prominent player in India’s aviation ecosystem. According to its official website, the company provides ground handling services across nine major Indian airports, including:

• Mumbai (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport)
• Delhi (Indira Gandhi International Airport)
• Cochin International Airport
• Kannur International Airport
• Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru
• Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad
• Goa International Airport
• Ahmedabad Airport
• Chennai International Airport

With over a decade of presence in India, Celebi has handled thousands of flights annually, supporting both domestic and international carriers with baggage, cargo, and ramp services.

What Happens Next?

The revocation of security clearance could significantly disrupt ground operations at these airports unless alternative arrangements are swiftly made. While Celebi may choose to contest the decision, Indian aviation authorities are likely to prioritize national security and geopolitical interests over commercial continuity.

Industry insiders suggest that the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and private airport operators might soon begin exploring other ground handling service providers to fill the void.

Political and Diplomatic Context

The diplomatic strain between India and Turkiye has been building steadily over the past few years. Turkiye has repeatedly voiced support for Pakistan on issues such as Kashmir and has criticized India’s counter-terror strikes, particularly those aimed at dismantling terror infrastructure across the border.

India has responded by reassessing bilateral ties, which now includes re-evaluating foreign entities operating in critical infrastructure sectors like civil aviation.

The revocation of security clearance for Celebi Airport Services India sends a strong message about India’s firm stance on national security and foreign policy alignment. While the move may cause short-term operational hiccups, it reflects New Delhi’s resolve to safeguard its strategic interests — even if it means pushing out long-standing foreign players from sensitive sectors.