Billionaire Gautam Adani’s group is exploring a move into airport ground handling services, aiming to diversify its portfolio following the exit of Turkish operator Celebi Hava Servisi AS from India.
Adani Airport Holdings Ltd is currently “evaluating” the possibility of bidding for ground handling contracts at Mumbai and Ahmedabad airports, according to CEO Arun Bansal.
The company, a subsidiary of Adani Enterprises Ltd, already manages eight airports across India, including Mumbai and Ahmedabad, and is building another in Navi Mumbai.
This potential entry into ground handling aligns with the Adani Group’s broader strategy of expanding into sectors complementary to its core businesses.
The opportunity emerged after India’s civil aviation security authority revoked Celebi’s clearance last month over national security concerns, leading to its abrupt exit.
Celebi had been providing services at nine airports, including key hubs in Delhi and Mumbai.
Celebi’s operations were reportedly halted after Turkey expressed support for Pakistan amid recent tensions with India.
If Adani secures the contracts, it will become the third authorised ground handler at Mumbai and Ahmedabad airports, in line with Indian regulations that mandate three handlers at airports with over a million passengers annually.
