Turkey’s Celebi Aviation Under Scrutiny for Handling High-Security Tasks at 9 Indian Airports
Following Turkey's open support to Pakistan in military affairs, Turkish firm Celebi Aviation, which handles key security operations at nine Indian airports, including Delhi and Mumbai, has come under serious scrutiny by Indian authorities. Allegations of links to the Turkish President’s family and proximity to VIP zones have raised red flags.
Last Updated:May 15, 2025, 08:58 IST
Celebi Aviation, a Turkish firm operating at major Indian airports, is under government scrutiny over national security concerns amid Turkey's support to Pakistan in recent conflicts.
A representation explains the strategic determination of Celebi Aviation's cargo terminal at Delhi Airport. (PressPost)
Main Content:
Celebi Aviation’s Presence in India Under Question
Celebi Aviation, a Turkey-based firm managing ground and cargo operations at nine major Indian airports, is now under the Indian government’s scanner. The move comes amid heightened tensions following Turkey's military support to Pakistan, including the supply of Bayraktar drones during border skirmishes.
Celebi operates at high-security zones in airports like Delhi and Mumbai, directly managing services such as passenger handling, ramp operations, and cargo. These tasks bring the company in close contact with sensitive and VIP areas, including those used by the Prime Minister’s aircraft.
Concerns Over Turkish Political Links
Defence analyst Abhijit Iyer-Mitra highlighted alarming links, stating that a portion of Celebi may be owned by Sumeyye Erdogan, daughter of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and wife of Selçuk Bayraktar—head of Baykar, the drone manufacturer that armed Pakistan. He warned of “national security vulnerabilities” due to Celebi's operational proximity to VVIP zones.
Political Backlash and Demands for Action
The Shiv Sena’s Murji Patel led a delegation to Mumbai International Airport Limited (MIAL), demanding cancellation of Celebi's contract. They issued a 10-day ultimatum, threatening protests if the firm continues operations.
Aviation advisor Sanjay Lazar added fuel to the controversy, recalling that Celebi was granted clearance shortly after the 26/11 attacks, when UPA was in power. Lazar pointed out that aviation unions under late Balasaheb Thackeray had earlier opposed Celebi’s entry.
Scale of Operations and Strategic Reach
Since it entered into India in 2008, Celebi has rapidly expanded to airports in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, Ahmedabad, Goa, and Kannur. It handles over 58,000 flights and 540,000 tonnes of cargo annually with a workforce of nearly 7,800 employees.
The firm operates through two main entities:
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Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd. – handles ground operations.
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Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India Pvt Ltd. – manages cargo and warehouse operations.
Govt May Review Commercial Ties
Though there’s no official timeline, sources indicate that the government may begin reviewing contracts where national security is directly involved. Celebi is being seen as part of this risk zone, especially in light of India’s stance against “terror state” supporters.
Takeaway:
With Celebi’s deep presence in Indian aviation and its alleged connections to Turkey’s ruling elite, the scrutiny is likely to intensify. In a post-Operation Sindoor landscape, India appears ready to reassess foreign associations that may compromise national security, even in civil aviation.
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