A Turkish firm, Çelebi Aviation, which handles high-security tasks at several major Indian airports, is currently under scrutiny amid growing anti-Turkey sentiment in India. This scrutiny follows Turkey's support for Pakistan during recent military hostilities between the two countries.
Çelebi Aviation Holding is a Turkish-origin company specializing in integrated ground handling services. Founded in 1958 as Turkey's first privately-owned ground handling firm, it has expanded into a global aviation services provider. The company's services include ramp handling, passenger and cargo operations, warehouse management, bridge operations, general aviation, and premium airport lounge services. With over 15,000 employees, Çelebi operates across 3 continents, in 6 countries, and at 70 stations worldwide.
Çelebi entered the Indian market in 2008 through a joint venture at Mumbai International Airport, providing ground handling services. It later registered its operations in India under two entities: Çelebi Airport Services India for ground handling and Çelebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India for cargo services at New Delhi International Airport. The company manages a significant volume of flights and cargo in India annually, handling around 58,000 flights and 540,000 tons of cargo.
Çelebi Aviation carries out several high-security tasks at Indian airports that are critical to the safe and efficient functioning of airport operations. These tasks include ramp services, load control and flight operations, and bridge operations. The company also handles cargo and postal services, along with warehouse management, all of which require strict security protocols.
The concerns surrounding Çelebi Aviation stem from Turkey's support for Pakistan, including reports that Turkey supplied drones to Pakistan after India's Operation Sindoor. This has led to calls for a boycott of Turkish products and services in India. Given Çelebi's access to sensitive areas of the airport and the potential national security threat, the Indian government is reportedly reviewing its financial relations with the company. On May 13, 2025, a Shiv Sena leader led a delegation to Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), urging the termination of their association with Celebi NAS Airport Services. On May 15, 2025, the Union Government cancelled the security clearance of the Turkish firm Celebi Aviation.
