Delhi Airport Authorities Remove Turkish Firm Celebi; GMR To Take Care Of All Cargo Operations

After Turkiye backed Pakistan against India, calls for a boycott of such nations have been coming from across the country. On Tuesday, Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) handed over all cargo operations to GMR Airports Limited (GAL), which were earlier managed by Celebi, a Turkish company.

This development is a direct result of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) withdrawing Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd's security clearance due to national security issues, effectively ending their partnership with Delhi airport operator DIAL. The revocation, occurring on May 15, prompted the immediate cessation of Celebi's services in ground handling and cargo operations at the airport.

GAL, a subsidiary of the GMR Group which operates IGIA, assumes control over the cargo functions to ensure uninterrupted service following the government's directive. DIAL made the announcement via the social media platform X, expressing gratitude for ongoing support and a commitment to maintaining smooth cargo operations at the airport. "Following a government directive revoking Celebi's security clearance, GMR Airports Limited (GAL) has assumed full responsibility for managing and operating all cargo functions at Delhi Airport, ensuring seamless business continuity," DIAL's statement read. They added, "We sincerely appreciate your continued support. Together, we're committed to ensuring smooth cargo operations and building a stronger future."

Celebi has been a prominent player in the Indian aviation sector for over 15 years, with operations spanning nine airports across the country, including major hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. The firm is known for employing more than 10,000 staff members in India and annually managing approximately 58,000 flights and 540,000 tonnes of cargo. However, the decision by BCAS to revoke Celebi's security clearance has halted its operations across all Indian airports. In an attempt to overturn the decision, Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd has approached the Delhi High Court, challenging the revocation on the grounds of national security concerns.