Active Indian Air Force Vacancies
Showing 20 of 53 jobs (Page 1 of 3)
Current Active Recruitments 2026
| Recruitment Name | Entry Level | Status | Exam Date |
| AFCAT 01/2026 | Officers (Class-I Gazetted) | City Intimation Released | 31 January 2026 |
| Agniveervayu 01/2027 | Personnel Below Officer Rank | Applications Open | Starting 12 Jan 2026 |
| NCC Special Entry | Flying Branch (Officers) | Applications Open | Direct AFSB Interview |
🏛️ Career Paths in the IAF
Joining the Air Force isn't just a job; it's a way of life governed by the motto "Nabha Sparsham Deeptam" (Touch the Sky with Glory).3 In 2026, candidates can join through three primary streams:
1. Commissioned Officers (AFCAT / NDA / CDS)
Officers lead the IAF and are responsible for mission planning and execution.4
- Flying Branch: Pilots for Fighter, Transport, and Helicopter fleets.5
- Ground Duty (Technical): Engineers managing aeronautical systems (AE-L and AE-M).6
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical): Includes Administration, Logistics, Accounts, Education, Meteorology, and the new Weapon Systems (WS) Branch.7
2. Agniveervayu (Agnipath Scheme)8
A four-year engagement model for youth aged 17.5 to 21.9
- Science Subjects: Requires 10+2 with Physics, Maths, and English.10
- Other Than Science Subjects: Open to any stream with 50% marks in 10+2.
- Benefit: Up to 25% of Agniveers are enrolled into the regular cadre after 4 years based on merit.11
💰 Salary, Perks & Seva Nidhi
The IAF provides a robust financial package along with unmatched lifestyle benefits.12
- Officers (Flying Officer): Basic Pay starts at ₹56,100 (Level 10).13 Including MSP of ₹15,500 and allowances, the starting monthly gross salary is approx.14 ₹85,000 - ₹1,10,000.15
- Agniveervayu: * Year 1: ₹30,000 (In-hand: ₹21,000)16
- Year 4: ₹40,000 (In-hand: ₹28,000)17
- Exit Package: A tax-free Seva Nidhi of approx.18 ₹10.04 Lakhs plus interest after 4 years.19
- Allowances: Hardship allowance, Dress allowance, Free Ration, and Canteen (CSD) facilities.20
🎯 Selection Process: The Road to the Blue Uniform
The selection process is designed to find candidates with "Officer Like Qualities" (OLQs).21
- Phase I: Written Test:
- AFCAT: 100 questions on Verbal Ability, GK, Reasoning, and Numerical Ability (300 Marks).22
- Agniveer: Online test covering Science and/or RAGA (Reasoning & General Awareness).23
- Phase II: AFSB / Selection Test:
- Day 1: Screening (OIR and PPDT).24
- Day 2-5: Psychological tests, Group Tasks (GTO), and Personal Interview.25
- Special Test: Candidates for the Flying Branch must clear the CPSS (Computerised Pilot Selection System), a once-in-a-lifetime test.26
- Phase III: Medicals: Rigorous fitness checks at specialized IAF Medical Boards (IAM/AFCME).27
💡 Preparation Tips for 2026
- Focus on Current Affairs: The IAF interview (AFSB) heavily tests your awareness of global defense trends and India's neighboring security issues.
- Physical Stamina: For Agniveervayu, start training for the 1.6 km run (6 min 30 sec for males), push-ups, and sit-ups early.
- Reasoning Accuracy: AFCAT 2026 has a negative marking of 1 mark for every wrong answer. High accuracy is more important than attempting every question.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions: Indian Air Force Jobs
What is the age limit for AFCAT 1 2026?
For the Flying Branch, the limit is 20-24 years (born between 02 Jan 2003 and 01 Jan 2007). For Ground Duty, it is 20-26 years (born between 02 Jan 2001 and 01 Jan 2007).
Can final-year students apply for AFCAT?
Yes, final-year students can apply provided they do not have any backlogs and can produce their degree certificate by the time of course commencement (January 2027).
Is there any height relaxation for women in IAF?
The minimum height for women is generally 152 cm, but specific requirements apply for the Flying Branch (minimum 162.5 cm).
What happens after 4 years of service as an Agniveervayu?
Up to 25% of the batch is absorbed into the regular cadre. The remaining receive the Seva Nidhi package and a "Skill India" certificate to aid in civilian employment.
What is the CPSS test in the Air Force?
The Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) tests psychomotor skills and cognitive abilities required for pilots. It can only be attempted once in a lifetime.