The Indian Air Force (IAF) is the aerial warfare branch of the Indian Armed Forces. It plays a crucial role in defending the nation’s airspace and safeguarding its sovereignty. To maintain its operational efficiency and meet the demands of modern warfare, the IAF conducts regular recruitment drives to attract talented individuals who aspire to serve their country as a part of this prestigious organization. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of Indian Air Force recruitment, including eligibility criteria, selection process, and career opportunities.
Contents
- 1 Indian Air Force (IAF) Recruitment
- 2 About Indian Air Force (IAF)
- 3 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Indian Air Force (IAF) Recruitment
The Indian Air Force recruitment process provides an opportunity for motivated individuals to serve their country and pursue a rewarding career. With stringent selection procedures and comprehensive training programs, the IAF ensures that its personnel possess the necessary skills, dedication, and commitment to uphold the nation’s security.
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Latest Indian Air Force (IAF) Vacancies
Agniveer Vayu - ( Various Posts)
| Post Name | Agniveer Vayu |
| Number of Posts | ( Various Posts) |
| Job Location: | -, Anywhere in India |
| Pay Scale: | INR30000-40000 |
| Last Date for application: | 27th January 2025 |
AFCAT 01/2025 – 336 Posts
| Post Name | AFCAT 01/2025 – 336 Posts |
| Qualification | Candidates should have passed with a minimum of 50% marks each in Maths and Physics at 10+2 level and Graduation (any Disciplines) or BE/B Tech degree or Candidates who have cleared Section A & B examination of Associate Membership of Institution of Engineers (India) or Aeronautical Society of India in relevant Engg disciplines Degree or PG Degree (Relevant Subjects) For More Details Refer Notification |
| Advt No | – |
| Age Limit (as on 01-01-2026) | For Flying Branch through AFCAT and NCC Special Entry: Minimum Age Limit: 20 Years Maximum Age Limit: 24 Years Candidates born between 02 January 2000 to 01 January 2006 (both dates inclusive) For Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) Branch: Minimum Age Limit: 20 Years Maximum Age Limit: 26 Years Candidates born between 02 January 2000 to 01 January 2006 (both dates inclusive). |
| Application Fee | For AFCAT entry: Rs. 550/- + GST For NCC Special Entry: Nil Payment Mode: Through Online |
| Last Date | Dec 31, 2024 |
| Apply Online | Click Here to apply online |
| Notification | View Details |
| Post Name | Branch | Total Vacancy (Men (SSC)) | Total Vacancy (Women (SSC)) |
| AFCAT Entry | Flying | 21 | 09 |
| Ground Duty (Technical) | 148 | 41 | |
| Ground Duty (Non- Technical) | 94 | 23 | |
| NCC Special Entry | Flying | 10% of seats | |
Airmen (Group Y) Medical Assistant
Age Limit
Medical Assistant trade :
- Candidate should be unmarried and born between 24 June 2003 and 24 June 2007 (both dates
inclusive).
Medical Assistant trade (with Diploma / B.Sc in Pharmacy) :
- Unmarried candidate should be born between 24 June 2000 and24 June 2005 (both dates inclusive). Married candidate should be born between 24 June 2000 and 24 June 2003 (both dates inclusive)
- Upper Age Limit: 21 Years
Qualification
Medical Assistant trade :
- Candidate should have passed 10+2 / Intermediate / Equivalent Examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate and with 50% marks in English.
Medical Assistant trade (with Diploma / B.Sc in Pharmacy) :
- Candidate should have passed Intermediate/ 10+2/ Equivalent Examination with Physics, Chemistry, Biology and English with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate and 50% marks in English.
Medical Standards
- Height : Minimum acceptable height is 152.5 cms
- Chest : The chest should be well proportioned and well developed with the minimum range of expansion of 5 cms.
- Weight : Proportionate to height and age as applicable for IAF
- Hearing : Candidate should have normal hearing i.e. able to hear forced whisper from a distance of 6 meters by each ear separately.
- Dental : Should have healthy gums, good set of teeth and minimum 14 dental points.
Visual Standards :
- 6/36 each eye, correctable to 6/9 each eye; Maximum limits of Refractive Error Not exceeding + 3.50D including Astigmatism
Vacancy Details
| Post Name | Rally Date |
| Group Y/Medical Assistant | 28 & 29-03-2024 |
| Group Y/Medical Assistant | 31 & 01-04-2024 |
| Group Y/Medical Assistant (For candidates holding Diploma / B.Sc in Pharmacy) | 03 & 04-04-2024 |
| Post Name | Airmen (Group Y) Medical Assistant |
| Qualification | 10+2 or Equivalent |
| Advt No | 01/2024 |
| Last Date | Apr 05, 2024 |
| Apply Online | Click Here to apply online |
| Notification | View Details |
Agniveer Vayu Intake (01/2026)
Application Fee:
- Examination Fee: Rs. 550/- plus GST
- Payment Mode: Through Online by using Debit Cards/ Credit Cards/Internet Banking
Age Limit
- (a) Date of Birth Block. Candidates born between 01 January 2005 and 01 July 2008 (both dates inclusive) are eligible to apply.
- (b) In case, a candidate clears all the stages of the Selection Procedure, then the upper age limit as on date of enrolment should be 21 years.
Qualification
(a) Science Subjects:
Candidates should have passed Intermediate/ 10+2/ Equivalent examination with Mathematics, Physics and English from Education Boards recognized by Central, State and UT with minimum 50% marks in aggregate and 50% marks in English. OR
Passed Three years Diploma Course in Engineering (Mechanical/ Electrical/ Electronics/ Automobile/ Computer Science/Instrumentation Technology / Information Technology) from Central, State and UT recognized Polytechnic institute with 50% marks in aggregate and 50% marks in English in Diploma Course (or in Intermediate/Matriculation, if English is not a subject in Diploma Course). OR
Passed Two years Vocational Course with non-vocational subject viz. Physics and Mathematics from Education Boards recognized by central, State and UT with 50% marks in aggregate and 50% marks in English in Vocational Course (or in Intermediate / Matriculation, if English is not a subject in Vocational Course).
(b) Other than Science Subjects:
Passed Intermediate / 10+2 / Equivalent Examination in any stream/subjects from Education Boards recognized by Central, State and UT with minimum 50% marks in aggregate and 50% marks in English. OR
Passed two years Vocational Course from Education Boards recognized by Central, State and UT with minimum 50% marks in aggregate and 50 marks in English in Vocational Course (or in Intermediate / Matriculation if English is not a subject in Vocational Course).
| Post Name | Agniveer Vayu Intake (01/2026) |
| Qualification | 10+2, Diploma (Engg) |
| Advt No | – |
| Last Date | Jan 27, 2025 |
| Apply Online | Click Here to apply online |
| Notification | View Details |
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Air Force Recruitment
To be eligible for Indian Air Force recruitment, candidates must fulfill certain criteria regarding age, educational qualifications, and physical fitness. The specific requirements may vary based on the entry level (officer or airmen) and the trade one wishes to apply for. Generally, candidates should be Indian citizens and meet the prescribed age and educational criteria.
Officer Entry and Selection Process
AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test)
AFCAT is a national-level entrance examination conducted by the Indian Air Force for the selection of officers in various branches. It assesses candidates’ aptitude in areas such as verbal ability, numerical ability, reasoning, and general awareness. Successful candidates proceed to the next stage of the selection process.
SSB Interview
Shortlisted candidates from the AFCAT are invited for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. The SSB interview is a comprehensive evaluation process that tests candidates’ personality, intelligence, and suitability for a career in the Indian Air Force. It includes a series of tests, group discussions, and personal interviews.
Medical Examination
Candidates who clear the SSB interview undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure they meet the medical standards set by the Indian Air Force. This examination evaluates the overall health and fitness of the candidates to ensure they can perform their duties effectively.
Airmen Entry and Selection Process
The Indian Air Force also offers opportunities for airmen recruitment in various technical and non-technical trades. The selection process for airmen entry includes written tests, physical fitness tests, and medical examinations.
Group X Trades
For candidates applying for technical trades, the written test assesses their knowledge in subjects such as mathematics, physics, and English. Candidates who clear the written test then undergo physical fitness tests and medical examinations.
Group Y Trades
Candidates applying for non-technical trades need to clear a written test that evaluates their proficiency in English, reasoning, and general awareness. Similar to Group X trades, candidates who pass the written test proceed to physical fitness tests and medical examinations.
How to Prepare for Indian Air Force Recruitment
To increase the chances of success in Indian Air Force Recruitment, aspiring candidates should adopt a focused and strategic approach to their preparation. This includes a thorough understanding of the selection process, regular practice of aptitude tests, physical fitness training, and staying updated with current affairs and general knowledge.
About Indian Air Force (IAF)
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is the aerial warfare branch of the Indian Armed Forces. It is responsible for protecting the Indian airspace and conducting air operations during both wartime and peacetime. With a rich history and a strong commitment to excellence, the IAF plays a vital role in defending the nation’s sovereignty and ensuring its security.
The vision of the Indian Air Force is to safeguard the Indian skies and protect the nation’s interests with aerospace power. Its mission is to achieve and maintain air superiority, effectively conduct aerial warfare, and provide integrated air defense to the Indian territory.
The Indian Air Force was officially established on 8th October 1932 as an auxiliary air force under the British Empire. Initially named the Royal Indian Air Force, it played a crucial role during World War II. After India gained independence in 1947, the prefix “Royal” was dropped, and it became known as the Indian Air Force.
Organizational Structure
The Indian Air Force operates under the Chief of Air Staff, who is responsible for the overall management and operational readiness of the force. It is divided into seven commands:
- Western Air Command
- Eastern Air Command
- Central Air Command
- Southern Air Command
- Southwestern Air Command
- Training Command
- Maintenance Command
Each command is headed by an Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief and is responsible for specific geographical regions and operational tasks.
Official Website: https://indianairforce.nic.in/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The age limit varies based on the entry level and trade. Generally, the age limit ranges from 16.5 to 25 years for airmen and 20 to 26 years for officers.
Yes, women can apply for both officer and airmen positions in the Indian Air Force.
Yes, there are certain relaxations in eligibility criteria for women candidates. The details can be found in the official recruitment notifications.
To prepare for the Indian Air Force recruitment exams, candidates should focus on subjects such as mathematics, physics, English, reasoning, and general awareness. Regular practice and staying updated with current affairs are also essential.