Adani Airports Terminates Turkish Firm Celebi’s Ground Handling Contracts Over Security Clearance Revocation

Celebi’s exit from Mumbai and Ahmedabad airports follows Centre’s decision citing national security; Adani commits seamless transition with new agencies and no job losses.

Mumbai, May 16:
Adani Airport Holdings has officially terminated its ground handling concession agreements with Turkish firm Celebi at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) and Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA), following the revocation of Celebi’s security clearance by the Government of India over national security concerns.

In a joint statement, spokespersons for both Mumbai and Ahmedabad airports confirmed the development, stating:

“Following the Government of India’s decision, Celebi has been directed to immediately hand over all ground handling facilities. New agencies have already been identified to ensure seamless operations without disruption.”

They assured that all existing Celebi employees at both airports will be absorbed by the new ground handling agencies on existing terms and conditions, ensuring no workforce displacement.

Celebi Responds to Allegations

In response to the contract termination and reports circulating online, Celebi Aviation India issued a statement denying allegations about its ownership and national ties, calling them “factually incorrect and misleading.”

“Celebi Aviation India is a professionally governed, globally operated firm. 65% of its shares are owned by international institutional investors from Canada, the US, UK, Singapore, UAE, and Western Europe,” the company said.

It further clarified that 50% of its parent company, Celebi Havacilik Holding AS, is owned by Jersey-registered fund Actera Partners II L.P., and 15% by Netherlands-based Alpha Airport Services BV.

Founded in 1958, Celebi Aviation is known globally for providing ground handling, cargo, and warehousing services, including passenger services, ramp handling, aircraft cleaning, and flight operations.

Despite its legacy, the company now faces complete removal from two of India’s busiest airports. Meanwhile, Adani Airport Holdings reaffirmed its commitment to national interests and operational continuity, assuring passengers and airlines that ground services will remain unaffected.