The Noida International Airport, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is facing operational delays linked to its CEO, Christoph Schnellmann, a Swiss national. Under a 2011 regulation from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), the CEO of any greenfield airport in India must be an Indian citizen, a rule that has become a significant hurdle for the airport. Although the Noida airport has secured its aerodrome licence, it still requires approval for the Aerodrome Security Programme (ASP) to commence passenger operations. Reports suggest that Schnellmann has not received the necessary security clearance from the Home Ministry, which is now the sole factor delaying the airport's opening. Critics of the rule argue it is outdated, especially as foreign nationals have successfully led major Indian airlines without similar restrictions. The Home Ministry's refusal to amend the rule adds to the complexity, potentially necessitating a last-minute change in leadership at the airport. This situation highlights the tension between India's desire for global investment in infrastructure and the constraints of legacy regulations.