Hearing Scheduled for May 19 as Turkish Firm Challenges BCAS Order
New Delhi, May 18 — The Delhi High Court is set to hear on Monday, May 19, two petitions filed by Turkish firm Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd and its subsidiary, Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India Pvt Ltd. The petitions challenge the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security’s (BCAS) decision to revoke the firms' security clearance citing national security concerns.The petitions, filed on Friday, are listed before Justice Sachin Datta.
Security Clearance Revoked Citing National Interest
The revocation order, issued by BCAS, stated that the security clearance granted to Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd in November 2022 is withdrawn "with immediate effect in the interest of national security." The decision came shortly after Turkey expressed support for Pakistan and condemned India’s military actions against terror camps across the border.Celebi's Role in Indian Aviation
Celebi has been operating in India’s aviation sector for over 15 years and currently provides services at nine major airports including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Goa, Cochin, Kannur, and Ahmedabad. The company claims to handle approximately 58,000 flights and 540,000 tonnes of cargo annually and employs over 10,000 personnel.DIAL Ends Partnership with Celebi
Following the security revocation, Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) formally terminated its association with Celebi for ground handling and cargo operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Celebi Airport Services and its cargo division had been managing these crucial functions until the revocation.Celebi Denies Allegations, Reaffirms Compliance
In an official statement, Celebi Aviation India asserted its full compliance with all Indian aviation, national security, and tax regulations. The company rejected all allegations concerning its ownership and operations in the country, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and its long-standing role in supporting India’s aviation infrastructure.The development comes amid heightened scrutiny over foreign entities operating in sensitive sectors, especially when geopolitical tensions influence diplomatic and security decisions.
The outcome of Monday’s hearing could have significant implications for foreign investments and operational norms within India’s civil aviation landscape.