India Revokes Celebi Aviation’s Security Clearance Over National Security Concerns
In a major move citing national security, India has revoked the security clearance of Turkish aviation firm Celebi Aviation, which operates at several major airports across the country.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on May 15 canceled the security clearance of Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd with immediate effect. The decision follows escalating tensions between India and Turkey over Ankara’s support to Pakistan after India’s Operation Sindoor.
Celebi Aviation, which offers passenger and cargo ground handling services, held clearance since November 2022. The revocation affects its operations at nine critical Indian airports including Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai.
Sources in the Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that alternate arrangements are being made. “Airports currently served by Celebi will coordinate with other ground handling agencies. New tenders will be issued soon,” an official said.
The firm’s responsibilities include handling high-security functions such as cargo services and airside operations — areas that are heavily regulated and essential to national infrastructure.
The move follows growing political and public pressure to sever ties with Turkish-linked entities. Shiv Sena MLA Murji Patel had earlier written to the Chief Airport Officer, demanding that Celebi’s operations be revoked due to Turkey’s pro-Pakistan stance.
“Turkey’s support for Pakistan at a time of national crisis is unacceptable. We cannot allow Turkish government-linked firms to operate in our sensitive zones,” Patel said.
India-Turkey relations have deteriorated after Turkey and Azerbaijan condemned India’s strikes during Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7 in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.
Reports suggest Turkish drones were deployed in support of Pakistani forces during the conflict, sparking outrage in India. This comes despite India having provided aid to Turkey after the 2023 earthquakes.
Travel portals such as EaseMyTrip, MakeMyTrip, and Ixigo have advised against visiting Turkey and Azerbaijan. Go Homestays also ended its partnership with Turkish Airlines, citing national interest.
Traders in India have reportedly begun boycotting Turkish imports, including apples and marble. Trade analysts have warned that escalating diplomatic tensions could result in broader economic fallout.
Officials have yet to announce if additional Turkish-linked entities will face similar action. With rising public pressure and diplomatic friction, more moves targeting Turkish business interests in India may follow.
