Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) ended its relationship with Turkish company Celebi late Thursday after India revoked security clearance. DIAL assured that all employees working for Celebi would be transferred to new employers immediately.
The company cut ties with Celebi, which handled ground services and cargo at Indira Gandhi International Airport, citing concerns about national security. This move came shortly after the aviation authority canceled the security approval for Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd.
Recently, there have been calls to boycott Turkish products and tourism. This is because Turkey supported Pakistan during rising tensions after the Pahalgam attack, and India’s Operation Sindoor targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK. Islamabad also used Turkish drones during this period.
Celebi was responsible for ground handling, and Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal managed cargo operations at the airport.
DIAL said it is working with current service providers to keep airport operations moving smoothly. It also promised to protect the welfare of employees.
The airport authority confirmed that all employees currently working for Celebi in cargo and ground handling will be transferred to new employers right away.
DIAL is working closely with its current Ground Handling service providers, AISATS and Bird Group, to keep operations running smoothly. For cargo services, DIAL is also in the process of onboarding a pre-approved cargo handler to prevent any disruption.
The BCAS has revoked the security clearance for Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd, effective immediately. This decision was made to protect national security, as authorized by the DG.
DIAL reassures passengers, airlines, and cargo companies that it is making every effort to maintain high service and operational standards during this transition.