Christoph Schnellmann, the Swiss national appointed CEO of Noida International Airport (NIA), may be removed from his position following a denial of security clearance by India's Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). This decision stems from existing aviation security (Avsec) regulations that bar non-Indian nationals from serving as chief executives of new greenfield airports.
Why the CEO Must Be Indian
The MHA recently rejected a proposal to amend the current Avsec rules, which the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) had flagged as a violation two years prior. A BCAS order, dated January 17, 2011, explicitly states that the CEO of an Indian greenfield airport must be an Indian national. This individual is designated as the security coordinator for the respective airport, responsible for implementing security measures in accordance with legal provisions and BCAS instructions.
The Noida International Airport, located in Jewar and inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is being developed by Zurich Airport International AG through its Indian subsidiary under a 40-year Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with the Uttar Pradesh government. Schnellmann has been at the helm since 2020.
Airline Precedents Don't Apply
Noida Airport authorities reportedly cited instances of foreign nationals leading Indian airlines, such as former IndiGo CEO Peter Elbers (Dutch) and outgoing Air India CEO Campbell Wilson (New Zealander), in hopes of securing clearance for Schnellmann. However, the BCAS order specifically addresses greenfield airport CEOs, with no similar prohibition for airline chief executives.
Next Steps for Noida Airport
While the NIA received its aerodrome license from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in March, its aerodrome security program (ASP) is currently under review by the BCAS. A Zurich airport spokesperson stated, "We are working closely with the BCAS to secure approval for ASP. Following this, we will coordinate with all stakeholders to finalise timelines for the commencement of commercial operations. Our efforts are focussed on ensuring that all systems, processes, and personnel are fully aligned to deliver a safe, efficient and seamless start of operations." The airport has faced several construction delays and now faces the additional challenge of potentially finding an Indian CEO to ensure operational readiness.