New Delhi [India]: The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has officially ended its partnership with Turkish ground-handling company Celebi, after the Central Government revoked the firm’s security clearance, citing national security concerns.
In a statement released on Thursday, DIAL confirmed the termination of all agreements with Celebi entities operating at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA).
“In compliance with the directive from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) to revoke the security clearance of Celebi Airport Services India, DIAL has formally ended its association with Celebi entities responsible for ground handling and cargo operations at IGIA,” the statement read.
Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd and Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India Pvt Ltd were previously in charge of ground handling and cargo operations at Delhi Airport.
To ensure a smooth transition, DIAL stated it is coordinating with alternate service providers, including AISATS and the Bird Group, for ground handling services. For cargo operations, DIAL is in the process of onboarding a pre-approved handler to prevent any disruptions.
“All employees currently on the rolls of Celebi entities for cargo and ground handling services at IGI Airport will be transitioned to the new employer(s) with immediate effect. These employees will continue under their existing terms and conditions of employment,” DIAL assured.
Passengers, airlines, and cargo partners have been promised uninterrupted services and consistent operational standards during the transition.
Wider Implications
Celebi is a major aviation services provider in India, handling about 70% of ground operations at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. Its services span passenger handling, cargo operations, load control, postal and warehouse services, and more.
Globally, Celebi Aviation operates in Turkey, India, Hungary, Germany, Tanzania, and Indonesia, serving over 400 airlines and employing nearly 16,000 staff.
The revocation of security clearance and subsequent termination at Delhi Airport mark a significant shift in India’s aviation landscape and reflect the government’s heightened focus on national security in strategic infrastructure sectors.