Noida Airport CEO's Security Clearance Delayed Due to Foreign Nationality

• Christoph Schnellmann, CEO of Noida International Airport, has not received mandatory security clearance since his 2020 appointment.
• The delay is attributed to BCAS norms requiring the airport CEO, who also acts as security coordinator, to be an Indian national.
• The role involves handling classified security protocols, intelligence inputs, and coordinating with intelligence agencies, deemed too sensitive for foreign nationals.
• The airport, inaugurated by PM Modi, is set to begin operations, making the security clearance issue critical.
• Zurich Airport International AG, the concessionaire, faces a dilemma as Schnellmann has been central to the airport's development.