Hello, dear friends! Iβm Avishek Giri, and Iβm thrilled to welcome you all to this blog. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has released the AFCAT 01/2026 Recruitment Notification, inviting applications from men and women who want to join the Air Force as Group βAβ Gazetted Officers. This recruitment includes positions in the Flying Branch, Ground Duty Technical, and Ground Duty Non-Technical categories.
The AFCAT exam is one of Indiaβs most popular defence exams, offering a respected career and excellent opportunities for growth. The online exam for AFCAT 01/2026 will be conducted on 31 January 2026. Candidates who dream of joining the Air Force must carefully read the details before applying.
Indian Air Force AFCAT 01/2026 Recruitment Overview
The AFCAT 01/2026 recruitment process is fully online and open to graduates with the required qualifications. The Indian Air Force is offering 284 vacancies across various branches. Both male and female candidates can apply depending on branch requirements and eligibility.
This recruitment drive is open across India, meaning candidates from any state can apply. The detailed eligibility criteria for each branch are provided in the official notification and summarized below.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Indian Air Force |
| Recruitment Name | AFCAT 01/2026 |
| Posts | Flying Branch & Ground Duty Posts |
| Total Vacancies | 284 |
| Type of Job | Defence Govt Job |
| Location | All India |
| Apply Mode | Online |
| Official Site | afcat.cdac.in |
| Apply Start | 17 November 2025 |
| Last Date | 14 December 2025 |
AFCAT Application Fee
Candidates applying for AFCAT must pay the application fee online. The fee is the same for all categories, except for NCC Special Entry candidates.
The fee can be paid using debit card, credit card, UPI, or net banking. Candidates must ensure successful payment to complete their application.
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General / OBC / EWS | Rs. 550/- |
| SC / ST | Rs. 550/- |
| NCC Special Entry | No Fee |
AFCAT 01/2026 Vacancy Details
The Indian Air Force has announced a detailed list of vacancies for AFCAT 01/2026. These vacancies are divided into Flying, Technical, and Non-Technical branches for both male and female candidates.
The number of posts may vary depending on training requirements and organizational needs. Below are the branch-wise details for the 284 available positions.
Flying Branch (AFCAT Entry)
The Flying Branch is one of the most prestigious positions in the Air Force. Pilots are trained to operate fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters. Female candidates also have good opportunities under Short Service Commission (SSC).
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| 01 | 02 |
Ground Duty (Technical Branch)
This branch includes Aeronautical Engineer roles in Electronics and Mechanical streams. These officers handle aircraft maintenance, radar systems, weapon systems, and related technical operations.
Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics) β AE (L)
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| 85 | 23 |
Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) β AE (M)
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| 38 | 10 |
Ground Duty (Non-Technical Branch)
These officers handle administrative, finance, logistics, education, meteorology, and other non-technical duties necessary for Air Force operations.
| Branch | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| Weapon System (WS) | 19 | 05 |
| Administration | 46 | 12 |
| Logistics (LGS) | 11 | 04 |
| Accounts (ACCTS) | 09 | 02 |
| Education (EDN) | 07 | 02 |
| Meteorology (MET) | 06 | 02 |
AFCAT 01/2026 Age Limit
Candidates must meet the age conditions as of 1 January 2027. The age limit is different for Flying Branch and Ground Duty posts. Candidates must ensure they fall within the required age range before applying.
Flying Branch (AFCAT & NCC Special Entry)
The age limit is between 20 to 24 years. Candidates holding a Commercial Pilot License issued by DGCA may get additional relaxation.
Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical)
The age limit for these branches is 20 to 26 years, giving candidates a wider eligibility range.
AFCAT Educational Qualification 2026
The educational requirements differ for each branch. All candidates must have passed Mathematics and Physics at the 10+2 level with a minimum of 50% marks for Flying Branch and most technical posts.
Flying Branch
Candidates must have passed 10+2 with 50% in Maths and Physics, along with:
- A graduation degree with at least 60%
OR - A BE/B.Tech degree with 60% marks
Ground Duty Technical
Candidates must have:
- 10+2 with 60% in Maths & Physics
- A 4-year engineering degree in relevant fields
Ground Duty Non-Technical
For Administration:
- Graduation in any stream with at least 60% marks
For Accounts: - B.Com or related degree with 60%
For Education: - Post-graduate degree with 50% and graduation with 60%
AFCAT 01/2026 Selection Process
The selection process includes a written exam followed by multiple stages of assessment. Only candidates who qualify each stage will move to the next step.
1. Written Examination
This is the first stage and includes questions on English, General Awareness, Reasoning, and Numerical Ability.
2. Physical Standards & Efficiency Tests
Candidates must meet the physical standards set by the Air Force.
3. AFSB Interview
Shortlisted candidates are called for the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview.
4. Medical Test
Medical fitness is compulsory for all branches.
5. Final Merit List
This is prepared based on the performance in all stages.
AFCAT Written Exam Pattern 2026
Candidates must reach the exam centre on time. Late entry is strictly not allowed. The exam is conducted online and includes objective-type questions.
AFCAT Exam Pattern
| Section | Duration | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| AFCAT | 2 Hours | 100 | 300 |
EKT (For Technical Candidates)
| Section | Duration | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| EKT | 45 Minutes | 50 | 150 |
Marking Scheme
- +3 marks for each right answer
- -1 mark for each wrong answer
- 0 marks for unattempted questions
How to Apply for AFCAT 01/2026
Candidates can apply online by following these steps. Make sure all details are correct before submitting the form.
- Visit afcat.cdac.in
- Click on AFCAT 01/2026 Application Link
- Register using email and mobile number
- Login and fill out the application form
- Upload required documents
- Pay the application fee
- Submit the form and print the confirmation page
Conclusion
The AFCAT 01/2026 Recruitment is a great opportunity for candidates who want a prestigious career in the Indian Air Force. With posts available in both Flying and Ground Duty branches, candidates from various educational backgrounds can apply. Interested applicants should read the notification carefully and apply before the 14th December 2025 deadline.
A career in the Air Force not only provides job security but also offers discipline, respect, and excellent career growth. Apply on time and start preparing early for the AFCAT exam.
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