In a major development, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has denied approval for Christoph Schnellmann to continue as CEO of Noida International Airport, prompting the appointment of Nitu Samra as interim CEO
By NSB.News
New Delhi: The management of Noida International Airport has announced Nitu Samra as its interim Chief Executive Officer after the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) declined security clearance for existing CEO Christoph Schnellmann.
The decision follows the Union Home Ministry’s refusal to relax rules that restrict foreign nationals from holding the CEO position at greenfield airports, citing concerns related to aviation security. This directly impacted the Noida airport project, which is being developed and operated by Yamuna International Airport Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of Zurich Airport International AG.
With the denial communicated earlier this week, it became necessary for the airport to appoint a new CEO. Christoph Schnellmann, who had been leading the project since August 2020, will now transition to the role of Executive Vice Chairman on the airport’s board.
Meanwhile, Nitu Samra brings significant experience to the role, having served as Chief Financial Officer of Noida International Airport Limited since October 2021. She has played a key role in financial management, governance, and strategic planning during the crucial development phase of the airport.
The leadership change comes at a critical time for the much-delayed Noida International Airport project, as authorities aim to expedite progress while ensuring compliance with regulatory and security requirements.