Adani Group Eyes Ground Handling Bids at Mumbai, Ahmedabad Airports After Celebi Ban

Following the Indian government's revocation of security clearance for Turkish ground handling operator Celebi due to national security concerns linked to Turkey's stance in the India-Pakistan conflict, the Adani Group is preparing to enter the airport ground handling business. Adani Airport Holdings Ltd., which already operates eight airports including Mumbai and Ahmedabad, is evaluating bids to provide ground handling services at these airports and others like Delhi and Bengaluru. This move aligns with Adani's strategy to diversify into complementary sectors and fills the void left by Celebi, which had handled operations at nine major Indian airports. Indian regulations require that major airports with over a million passengers have three ground handlers, so if successful, Adani will become the third handler at Mumbai and Ahmedabad. The decision follows the termination of Adani's ground handling agreement with Celebi after the revocation of Celebi's security clearance. This strategic expansion coincides with India's plans to significantly increase its number of operational airports, underscoring the growth potential in the aviation sector.