Indian Air Force AFCAT Recruitment 2026: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the AFCAT 01/2026 Notification for 340 vacancies across Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical), and NCC Special Entry. Both male and female candidates from India are eligible to apply for this prestigious recruitment. The online application process will start on 17 November 2025 and continue until 14 December 2025. The AFCAT 2026 Exam is scheduled to be held on 31 January 2026.
This recruitment offers an excellent opportunity for candidates seeking a career in the Indian Air Force with a handsome Level-10 salary (₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500) along with various allowances and benefits.
Indian Air Force AFCAT 2026 Overview
| Organization | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
| Post Name | Flying Officer |
| Advt. No. | AFCAT 01/2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 340 Posts |
| Salary/Pay Scale | Level-10 (₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500) |
| Job Location | Across India |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Category | Air Force Recruitment 2026 |
| Application Dates | 17 November – 14 December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 31 January 2026 |
| Official Website | afcat.cdac.in |
ALSO READ: RSSB Driver Exam Date 2025 – Rajasthan Vehicle Driver Exam Schedule, Pattern, and Admit Card Details
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
| Notification Release | 9 November 2025 |
| Application Start | 17 November 2025 |
| Application End | 14 December 2025 |
| Exam Date | 31 January 2026 |
| Course Commencement | January 2027 |
Indian Air Force AFCAT Vacancy 2026 Details
The AFCAT 01/2026 Notification includes 340 vacancies for Flying Officers across multiple branches. Below is the detailed branch-wise distribution of posts:
| Entry | Branch | Course Number | Men (PC) | Women (PC) | Men (SSC) | Women (SSC) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry | Flying | 221/27F/SSC/M&W | – | – | 34 | 04 |
| Ground Duty (Technical) | AE(L)/AE(M) | 220/27T/PC/110AEC/M&W | AE(L): 03 AE(M): 09 | AE(L): 03 AE(M): 03 | AE(L): 100 AE(M): 38 | AE(L): 23 AE(M): 09 |
| Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | Admin, Lgs, Accts, WS, Edn, Met | 220/27G/SSC/M&W | – | – | WS: 21, Admin: 48, Lgs: 09, Accts: 08, Edn: 02, Met: 01 | WS: 05, Admin: 12, Lgs: 02, Accts: 02, Edn: 02, Met: 02 |
| NCC Special Entry | Flying | 221/27F/PC/M & 221/27F/SSC/M&W | – | – | 10% of CDSE vacancies (PC) and 10% of AFCAT vacancies (SSC) | – |
AFCAT 2026 Application Fee
Candidates applying for AFCAT Entry must pay a fee of ₹550 through online mode. However, NCC Special Entry candidates are exempted from the application fee.
| Category | Application Fee |
| General / OBC / EWS | ₹550/- |
| SC / ST / PwBD / Women / Ex-Servicemen | ₹550/- |
| Payment Mode | Online (Credit/Debit Card, UPI, Net Banking) |
AFCAT 2026 Age Limit
The age limit varies depending on the branch:
- Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years (born between 2 January 2003 to 1 January 2007).
- Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical): 20 to 26 years (born between 2 January 2001 to 1 January 2007).
Age relaxation will be applicable as per Indian Air Force recruitment rules.
AFCAT 2026 Educational Qualification
Candidates must meet the educational requirements as per their respective branches:
Flying Branch
- Must have passed 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics with minimum 50% marks.
- Must possess a Graduation (any discipline) or B.E./B.Tech degree with minimum 60% marks.
Ground Duty (Technical Branch)
- Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics): 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics and a 4-year degree in Engineering/Technology with minimum 60% marks.
- Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical): 10+2 with Physics and Mathematics and a 4-year degree in Engineering/Technology with minimum 60% marks.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical Branch)
- Graduation in the relevant discipline (Administration, Logistics, Accounts, Education, Meteorology, etc.) with minimum 60% marks.
Candidates are advised to check the official notification for detailed educational qualifications.
Indian Air Force AFCAT 2026 Selection Process
The selection process for AFCAT 01/2026 will include the following stages:
1.Written Examination (AFCAT 2026)
- Objective-type questions on General Awareness, Verbal Ability, Numerical Ability, Reasoning, and Military Aptitude.
- Total Marks: 300
- Duration: 2 hours
2.AFSB (Air Force Selection Board) Interview
- Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview that includes psychological tests, group tasks, and personal interviews.
3.Document Verification
- Candidates must present original documents, mark sheets, and certificates during the verification round.
4.Medical Examination
- A final medical test will determine the candidate’s physical and medical fitness for the Indian Air Force.
How to Apply for Indian Air Force AFCAT Recruitment 2026
Follow the step-by-step process below to apply for AFCAT 01/2026:
- Visit the official website – afcat.cdac.in.
- Click on the AFCAT 01/2026 Apply Online link.
- Read the official notification carefully and ensure eligibility.
- Complete the registration using your name, mobile number, and email ID.
- Log in using the User ID and Password sent to your registered email.
- Fill in all required details accurately in the application form.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents, passport-size photograph, and signature.
- Pay the application fee online and submit your form.
- After successful submission, take a printout of the application form for future reference.
AFCAT 2026 Salary Structure and Benefits
Selected candidates will be appointed as Flying Officers in Level-10 Pay Matrix (₹56,100 – ₹1,77,500). In addition, they will receive:
- Military Service Pay (MSP): ₹15,500 per month
- Flying Allowance (for Flying Branch): ₹11,250 per month
- Other allowances including Transport, Technical, Field Area, and Dearness Allowance as per norms.
Moreover, officers enjoy medical facilities, canteen privileges, leave travel concessions, and subsidized housing.
Indian Air Force AFCAT 2026 Important Links
| Apply Online (Active from 17 November 2025) | Apply Now |
| Official Website | Visit Here |
The Indian Air Force AFCAT Recruitment 2026 is a golden opportunity for candidates who aspire to serve the nation by joining one of India’s most prestigious defense forces. With attractive pay, career growth, and the honor of wearing the uniform, the AFCAT 01/2026 entry offers a fulfilling and dynamic career path for passionate individuals.
Candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly and apply within the stipulated dates to avoid last-minute issues.