India Cancels Celebi Aviation Permit Over Non-Compliance

Indian civil aviation authorities have revoked the ground handling permit of Celebi Aviation’s Indian subsidiary, citing regulatory non-compliance, a move that could disrupt operations at several major airports.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) announced the decision, which impacts Celebi’s operations at nine airports across the country, including key hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Celebi has been a significant provider of ground handling and cargo services at these locations since entering the Indian market in 2009.

Celebi Aviation Holding Inc., which is 65% owned by international investors (from countries including the U.S., Canada, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Italy, UAE, and others) and 35% by the Celebioglu Family, continues its uninterrupted operations at airports in Turkey, Hungary, Germany, Tanzania, and Indonesia. In 2024, the company’s consolidated revenue was approximately $585 million.

BCAS revokes Celebi’s security clearance in India
(Photo: BCAS)

Celebi’s Response

Celebi Aviation described the decision by Indian civil aviation authorities to revoke its permit as “regrettable and unjustified.” The company stated that it has always adhered to all laws and regulations and will appeal the decision. Celebi also emphasized its significant contributions to the Indian economy, noting that it has provided employment to approximately 10,000 Indian citizens and invested over $250 million in the country.

The company further stated that it “will pursue all administrative and legal remedies to clarify these unfounded allegations and to reverse the imposed orders.”

The revocation of Celebi’s permit is expected to cause significant disruptions in ground handling services at several major Indian airports. Airlines operating at these airports may face operational challenges as they seek alternative ground handling service providers. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has indicated that interim arrangements are being made to ensure continuity of services.

Celebi Aviation, headquartered in Turkey, entered the Indian market in 2007 and has since become one of the country’s prominent ground handling service providers. The company operates at nine airports, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, Ahmedabad, Mopa (Goa), and Kannur.

In addition to ground handling, Celebi manages cargo operations at Delhi airport through a joint venture with Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL).

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Tolga Karadeniz

Tolga is a dedicated aviation enthusiast with years of experience in the industry. From an early age, his fascination with aviation went beyond a mere passion for travel, evolving into a deliberate exploration of the complex mechanics and engineering behind aircraft. As a writer, he aims to share insights , providing readers with a view into the complex inner workings of the aviation industry.

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