India withdraws Turkey-affiliated aviation company's clearance on grounds of 'national security'

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) on Thursday revoked the security clearance of a Turkish airport ground handling company with immediate effect. The move comes amid outrage over Turkey siding with Pakistan in the escalating tensions with India after the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent 'Operation Sindoor' launched by New Delhi. "In exercise of the powers conferred on the Director General, BCAS, in the interest of national security, the security clearance in respect of Selebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd is cancelled with immediate effect.

Celebi Aviation Company got contracts of 9 companies in India

In fact, Turkey's Celebi Aviation Company was given the contract to handle ground operations at nine airports in India. These airports include big names like Delhi, Bombay, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Goa, Cochin and Kannur.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) revokes security clearance for Turkish airport ground handling company CELEBI with immediate effect: Order pic.twitter.com/bwqYFUz3eH

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) May 15, 2025

Security Concerns and the Role of Employees

Many of Celebi's employees work in high-security sectors in India, for whom Airport Entry Passes (AEPs) are issued after detailed background verification by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). The company's deep integration into India's civil aviation infrastructure, especially at a time of tense geopolitical relations, raises concerns about foreign involvement.