Turkey-linked aviation firm Celebi challenges India's security clearance revocation in court
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Turkish-origin aviation services provider Celebi has taken legal action after the Indian government abruptly revoked its security clearance, citing national security concerns.
The company filed a petition in the Delhi High Court on Friday, a day after the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) issued the cancellation order.
The move comes in the wake of rising diplomatic tensions, particularly following Turkey's vocal support for Pakistan after Operation Sindoor, an Indian military operation. In light of these developments, Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, stated, “Celebi has been banned in the country due to national security concerns.”
Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd, which handles ground and cargo operations at nine major Indian airports—including those in Delhi, Bengaluru, and Goa—has contested the government's decision. According to a Reuters report, the company argued that the cancellation lacked transparency and was based on “vague” security concerns. It also claimed there was no prior notice or opportunity to respond before the clearance was revoked.
In its plea, Celebi emphasised that nearly 3,800 jobs are at stake, along with potential damage to investor confidence in India’s aviation sector. The firm stressed that although it has Turkish roots, its Indian operations function independently and are led by Indian professionals.
In a statement released following the revocation, the company asserted, “Celebi’s business in India is an Indian enterprise in every sense—professionally managed, politically neutral, and fully compliant with global corporate governance standards.”
The company also highlighted its global presence and track record: “With over 65 years in the aviation industry, Celebi Aviation operates across three continents and six countries, supporting local economies and employment wherever it is present.”
Celebi had originally received security clearance from Indian authorities in November 2022. Since then, it has reportedly handled over 58,000 flights and processed around 540,000 tonnes of cargo annually across the country.