Ministry of Civil Aviation has unveiled a comprehensive transition plan to ensure the smooth absorption of approximately 10,000 employees from Celebi Aviation into other ground-handling service providers.
This move follows the revocation of security clearance for the Turkish-origin company, which previously operated at nine major Indian airports.
The transition plan aims to minimize disruptions in airport operations while ensuring that employees are retained and reassigned to new employers.
Background: Why Operations at Celebi Aviation Are Ending
Celebi Aviation, a leading ground-handling service provider, was responsible for terminal handling, ramp handling, and cargo operations at major airports, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Cochin, Kannur, Goa, and Ahmedabad.
However, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) revoked Celebi’s security clearance, citing national security concerns.
As a result, all major airport operators terminated their contracts with Celebi, necessitating a structured transition plan for its workforce.
Transition Plan for Celebi Aviation Employees
To ensure continuity in airport operations, the Civil Aviation Ministry has outlined the following measures:
- Airport Entry Permits (AEPs) for Celebi employees will remain valid until May 19, 2025.
- After May 19, new permits will be issued under the names of incoming ground-handling employers.
- AISATS and Bird Worldwide Flight Services will absorb Celebi’s responsibilities at Delhi Airport.
- GMR will take over cargo operations previously managed by Celebi at Delhi Airport.
- At Mumbai Airport, a new ground-handling firm is being onboarded to integrate Celebi’s staff.
- At Goa’s Mopa Airport, where Celebi was the sole ground handler, authorities are still assessing the next steps.
Given the scale of operations—Celebi staff handle nearly 160 flights daily—industry experts anticipate that BCAS may extend permit validity to prevent operational delays.
Challenges in the Transition Process
While the Ministry has assured a smooth transition, several logistical and administrative challenges remain:
- Redistribution of Celebi’s assets and equipment among new service providers.
- Integration of employees into new teams while maintaining operational efficiency.
- Ensuring compliance with security protocols during the transition.
Industry and Government Response
Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu emphasized that passenger convenience and cargo operations will remain unaffected.
He stated, “National interest and public safety are paramount. The Ministry is fully committed to ensuring a seamless transition for Celebi employees.”
Meanwhile, airport operators are working to finalize agreements with new ground-handling firms to absorb Celebi’s workforce.
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