Çelebi Moves Delhi High Court Over Security Clearance Revocation Amid India-Turkey Tensions

Turkish aviation services company Çelebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd has approached the Delhi High Court, challenging the Indian government's decision to revoke its security clearance. The clearance was withdrawn by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on May 15, 2025, citing concerns related to national security. The move comes amid rising diplomatic tensions, following Turkey's vocal support for Pakistan in recent international matters, including condemnation of India's military actions against terror camps across the border.

Çelebi has been operating in India for over 15 years and is a key player in the aviation ground handling and cargo services sector. The company provides services at major Indian airports including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kochi, Ahmedabad, and Kannur. Employing over 10,000 people, Çelebi handles more than 58,000 flights and over half a million tonnes of cargo annually. The sudden revocation of its clearance has led to widespread disruptions and has raised concerns over operational continuity and employee security.

In its petition to the Delhi High Court, Çelebi has argued that the government’s decision lacks detailed justification and violates principles of natural justice. The company stated that it has always complied with Indian laws, including those related to aviation security, taxation, and foreign investment. Though it is Turkish-owned, Çelebi emphasized that its Indian operations are managed by Indian professionals and that its business in India is independent of any political influence or foreign policy agenda.

Following the revocation, several Indian airports have terminated their contracts with the company. Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) and Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) have already ended their association with Çelebi. In Mumbai, Indo Thai Airport Services has been appointed as an interim ground handling agency for the next three months. This move ensures the continuity of services and secures employment for existing ground staff who were working under Çelebi.

The Delhi High Court is expected to hear the case in the coming week. Legal experts suggest that the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how India treats foreign service providers operating in sensitive sectors such as aviation, especially in light of geopolitical developments. The petition has drawn attention from industry stakeholders, government regulators, and international business groups, all keenly watching how the case unfolds.

Çelebi maintains that its operations have been transparent and in line with all regulatory standards. The company has urged the court to intervene and restore its security clearance, arguing that the decision not only harms its business interests but also impacts thousands of employees and the smooth functioning of airport operations.