India to review Celebi Aviation contracts amid National Security concerns

New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): The Government of India is reportedly set to review contracts awarded to Turkey-based Celebi Aviation, a key player in ground handling and cargo operations at nine major Indian airports, including Delhi and Mumbai. The decision follows growing geopolitical and national security concerns, particularly after Turkey’s vocal support for Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, India's recent military action.

According to media reports, the government will begin reviewing financial and operational relationships with entities linked to critical infrastructure, where national security is directly involved. Celebi’s scope of services—covering ground handling, cargo warehousing, flight support, and general aviation—has placed it under scrutiny.

Celebi operates at airports in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, Ahmedabad, Goa, and Kannur, employing over 7,800 personnel in India.

Concerns Over Security Proximity

Security experts and policymakers have raised red flags regarding the strategic locations of Celebi-operated terminals, particularly in Delhi. The Celebi cargo terminal at Delhi Airport reportedly overlooks the VVIP technical area, where electronic intelligence aircraft are stationed and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aircraft is occasionally positioned.

Government to Reassess Ties with Turkish Entities

While no official timeline has been announced, sources suggest the government will begin auditing contracts and strategic partnerships with Turkish-linked firms, starting with those related to sensitive infrastructure.

Officials are expected to assess Celebi’s role in India’s aviation ecosystem, its ownership structure, and any potential security vulnerabilities, especially in areas close to military or VIP installations.

Celebi Aviation India Responds

In a detailed statement issued to the media, Çelebi Aviation India firmly refuted all allegations surrounding its ownership, operational intent, and proximity to sensitive zones.

The company clarified that 65% of its ownership lies with international institutional investors based in Canada, the U.S., the UK, Singapore, UAE, and Western Europe. Only 35% of the parent company—Çelebi Havacılık Holding A.Ş—is owned by Turkish nationals Can Çelebioğlu and Canan Çelebioğlu, children of the original founder.

“Çelebi’s business in India is truly an Indian enterprise, led and managed by Indian professionals. We have contributed over $220 million in long-term infrastructure investments and directly employ more than 10,000 Indians,” the statement said.

The company categorically denied claims that Sümeyye Erdoğan, daughter of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, is involved in ownership, calling the rumor “false and misleading.”

Furthermore, Celebi emphasized that all its operations are regularly audited by Indian aviation and security authorities, including the CISF, BCAS, and AAI, maintaining full compliance with Indian national security, aviation, and tax laws.

“We urge responsible dissemination of information and request media outlets to avoid amplifying speculative narratives that jeopardize the livelihood of thousands of employees,” the statement added.

What’s Next?

The controversy underscores the delicate balance between economic partnerships and national security in a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment. As India accelerates its aviation modernization and infrastructure development, the government’s review of foreign-linked service providers is expected to shape future policy and procurement guidelines.

For now, Celebi Aviation India continues operations as usual, while government officials initiate internal assessments. A formal review committee may be constituted to determine the continuity or reassignment of Celebi’s responsibilities at India’s busiest airports.

Tags: Celebi Aviation India, India Turkey Relations, Airport Security India, Delhi Airport Cargo Terminal, Operation Sindoor, Celebi Controversy, National Security Review India, Indian Aviation Ground Handling, Çelebi Ownership Facts, Sümeyye Erdoğan Rumor, MHA Celebi Review, AAI, CISF, BCAS Audits