The Old Licensing Maze
Until now, food business operators (FBOs) at airports often found themselves navigating a complex web of regulations. The primary point of confusion was whether they needed a Central License from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
or a State License from the respective state's food safety department. Generally, FSSAI licenses are tiered based on annual turnover: Basic Registration for turnovers up to ₹12 lakh, a State License for turnovers between ₹12 lakh and ₹20 crore, and a Central License for turnovers exceeding ₹20 crore. However, jurisdiction was also determined by location. FBOs operating in central government-controlled areas like railways, seaports, and airports have historically been required to obtain a Central License, regardless of their turnover. This created ambiguity, as some operators were unsure which authority had ultimate jurisdiction, leading to compliance challenges and operational delays.
FSSAI's New Directive for Clarity
To resolve this long-standing issue, the FSSAI has issued a clarifying order that streamlines the licensing process. According to a notification dated April 6, 2026, the FSSAI has formally expanded the jurisdiction of its Central Food Safety Officers to explicitly include major international airports like those in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata. This move formalises what was already a general rule, removing any doubt about which authority is in charge. The directive reiterates that all food businesses operating within the airport premises fall under the purview of the central authority. This means that regardless of annual turnover, from the smallest kiosk to the largest restaurant chain, any food outlet inside an airport terminal must secure a Central License from the FSSAI.
Who Does This Affect?
This clarification impacts every food business operating within the defined premises of an airport. This includes restaurants, cafes, food courts, snack bars, and beverage counters located inside passenger terminals. It also extends to flight kitchens and caterers that prepare food on or near airport grounds to be served on airlines. Previously, a business owner with a turnover that would typically require only a State License might have been confused about their obligations at an airport location. The new order makes it clear: if your business is at the airport, the Central License is mandatory. This ensures a uniform standard of safety and quality control at these high-traffic, high-visibility locations that serve millions of domestic and international travellers.
The Benefits of Clear Jurisdiction
The primary benefit of this new order is clarity, which directly supports the ease of doing business. For entrepreneurs and established chains looking to open outlets at airports, the path to compliance is now straightforward. There is no longer a need to debate whether a State or Central license is appropriate, saving time and potential legal hurdles. This unified approach also strengthens food safety enforcement. With Central Food Safety Officers having clear jurisdiction, inspections and regulatory supervision can be carried out more efficiently and consistently across all airports covered by the order. For consumers, this translates to a higher, more reliable standard of food safety at a critical transit hub. For businesses, it means a level playing field and a predictable regulatory environment.
What Businesses Should Do Now
Food business operators planning to open new outlets at airports should apply directly for a Central License through the FSSAI's online portal, FoSCoS. The application requires Form B and relevant documentation about the business and its premises. Existing businesses currently operating on a State License should begin the process of migrating to a Central License to ensure they are compliant with the clarified regulations. While the FSSAI has been working to streamline transitions, it is crucial for businesses to proactively manage their licensing status. This move is part of a broader effort by the FSSAI to simplify compliance, as seen in other recent reforms like introducing perpetual licenses (eliminating the need for renewals) and creating risk-based inspection schedules.
