The Indian Air Force has issued the AFCAT 01/2026 Notification for Indian nationals (both men and women) to join their prestigious defense service as Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officers in:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty (Technical) Branch
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch
- NCC Special Entry
This is one of the most honorable opportunities to serve the country while building a career with the Indian Air Force that you will be proud of.
Table of Contents
📌 Important Dates
- Online Application Start: 17 November 2025 (11:00 hrs)
- Last Date to Apply: 14 December 2025 (23:30 hrs)
- AFCAT Exam Date: 31 January 2026 (Saturday)
✈️ AFCAT 01/2026 – Branches & Vacancies
⭐ 1. Flying Branch (SSC – Men & Women)
The Flying Branch offers one of the most prestigious roles in the Indian Armed Forces—flying fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Flying advanced aircraft like Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Rafale, Tejas, C-130J, Chinook, etc.
- Air superiority missions, air combat, ground attack, and escort operations.
- Humanitarian missions, medical evacuation, and search & rescue.
- Strategic airlift and logistics operations.
Who Should Apply?
- Candidates passionate about aviation
- High physical & mental stamina
- Excellent decision-making and leadership skills
⚙️ 2. Ground Duty (Technical) Branches
These branches ensure that all aircraft, systems, and equipment remain mission-ready.
It includes two major engineering disciplines:
2.1 Aeronautical Engineer (Electronics) – AE (L)
What You Will Handle
- Radar systems
- Avionics
- Communication systems
- Navigation equipment
- Electronic warfare systems
- Flight control systems
- Cyber-security components
- Surveillance & network systems
Role Focus
You ensure that the aircraft’s electronic systems are fully operational for combat and missions.
2.2 Aeronautical Engineer (Mechanical) – AE (M)
What You Will Handle
- Aircraft engines
- Aircraft structures
- Fuel systems
- Mechanical controls
- Airframe components
- Hydraulic & pneumatic systems
- Propulsion & maintenance systems
Role Focus
Ensures the health, safety & performance of all aircraft and heavy equipment.
🛡️ 3. Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branches
These branches are crucial for military administration, logistics, intelligence, weather prediction, weapon operations, and financial management.
3.1 Weapon Systems (WS) Branch
Key Functions
- Operating weapon systems on aircraft
- Managing radar-based targeting
- Assisting pilots in combat operations
- Overseeing weapons deployment during missions
Who Is It Best For?
Candidates skilled in technology, defence systems, and tactical operations.
3.2 Administration Branch (Admin)
Key Functions
- Human resource management
- Defence protocol & ceremonial duties
- Security clearance
- Legal duties (for law graduates)
- Organization & discipline management
Impact
Ensures smooth functioning of all Air Force units.
3.3 Logistics (LGS) Branch
Key Functions
- Supply chain management
- Inventory control
- Transport & movement planning
- Ensuring availability of equipment & weapons
Impact
Ensures the Air Force runs efficiently & without delays.
3.4 Accounts Branch (Accts)
Key Functions
- Budget planning
- Salary disbursement
- Procurement audits
- Financial management
- Maintaining defence expenditure records
Ideal For
Students with Finance, B.Com, BBA, BMS, CA, CMA, CFA backgrounds.
3.5 Education Branch (Edn)
Key Functions
- Training airmen & officers
- Developing training modules
- Technical and academic instruction
- Classroom and outdoor educational programs
Impact
Builds the knowledge, discipline & leadership of the Air Force workforce.
3.6 Meteorology Branch (Met)
Key Functions
- Weather prediction
- Flight safety briefings
- Analysis of atmospheric data
- Support for mission planning
Impact
Ensures safe and precise air operations based on accurate weather forecasts.
🎖️ 4. NCC Special Entry (Flying Branch)
Eligibility
- Mandatory NCC Air Wing ‘C’ Certificate
- 10% seats out of CDSE for PC & 10% out of AFCAT vacancies for SSC
Special Advantage
No written exam → Direct call for AFSB Interview.
Why It’s Special?
This entry is designed for disciplined NCC cadets already trained in aviation basics.
👮 5. Type of Commission
Permanent Commission (PC)
- Serve till retirement
- Offered to both Men & Women in technical & select branches
Short Service Commission (SSC)
- Ground Duty Branches: 10 years + 4 years extension
- Flying Branch: 14 years
🌟 Summary – Which Branch Should You Choose?
| Branch | Best For | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Flying | Brave leaders, aviation lovers | Combat, transport, helicopter flying |
| AE (L) | Electronics/Computer engineers | Avionics, cyber, radars |
| AE (M) | Mechanical/Production engineers | Engines, airframes, propulsion |
| WS | Tactical & tech-enthusiasts | Weapon systems, targeting |
| Admin | HR/legal/protocol | Administration & discipline |
| Logistics | Supply chain experts | Material & equipment management |
| Accounts | Finance/commercial grads | Budget, audits, payments |
| Education | Academics/trainers | Academic & military education |
| Meteorology | Physics/Maths enthusiasts | Weather forecasting |
| NCC Entry | NCC Cadets | Direct AFSB |
🎓 Eligibility Criteria (Highlights)
Nationality
- Indian citizen under the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955.
Age Limit
- Flying Branch: 20–24 years (01 Jan 2027 cut-off)
- Technical & Non-Technical: 20–26 years
- Commercial Pilot License: Upper age relaxable up to 26 years
Education
- Flying Branch: 10+2 with Physics & Maths (50%), Graduation (60%) / B.Tech (60%)
- Technical: Minimum 4-years engineering degree in specified disciplines
- Non-Technical: Depends on branch — B.Com, BBA (Finance), B.Sc, Graduate Degree etc.
💰 Application Fee
- ₹550 + GST (For AFCAT entry)
- No fee for NCC Special Entry
🧾 How to Apply
- Visit https://afcat.edcil.co.in
- Register using Email ID & Mobile
- Upload required docs: photo, signature, thumb impression
- Submit application & pay fees
- Download application form for future use
📘 Selection ProcessAFCAT Written Exam (100 questions, 300 marks)
- AFCAT Written Exam (100 questions, 300 marks)
- AFSB Interview
- Medical Examination
⭐ Why This Job Is Special?
✔ Chance to serve India with pride and prestige
✔ Become a commissioned officer of the Indian Air Force
✔ A prestigious and respected career in the defense force
✔ Highly competitive salary and benefits
✔ Life of discipline, respect, adventure, and national duty
🔗Important Links:-
👉 Apply Here: https://afcat.edcil.co.in
👉 Latest Government Exam Notifications
AFCAT 01/2026 – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is AFCAT 01/2026?
AFCAT 01/2026 is the Air Force Common Admission Test conducted by the Indian Air Force to recruit Flying Officers and Ground Duty Officers (Technical & Non-Technical).
2. Who can apply for AFCAT 01/2026?
Indian citizens (Men & Women) who meet the eligibility criteria for age, education, and medical standards can apply for Flying, Technical, Non-Technical, and NCC Special Entry branches.
3. What is the age limit for AFCAT?
Flying Branch: 20–24 years
Technical & Non-Technical: 20–26 years
CPL holders: Upper age relaxation up to 26 years
4. Is NCC Special Entry exempt from written exam?
Yes, candidates with NCC Air Wing ‘C’ Certificate are exempt from the AFCAT written exam and are directly called for the AFSB interview.
5. What is the application fee for AFCAT 2026?
₹550 + GST for AFCAT entry. No fee for NCC Special Entry.
6. What is the exam date for AFCAT 01/2026?
The AFCAT written exam will be held on 31 January 2026 (Saturday).
7. Can final-year students apply for AFCAT?
Yes, final-year students with no backlog can apply, but they must produce final results by 30 November 2026.
8. What is the selection process for AFCAT?
The selection process includes:
1. AFCAT Written Test
2. AFSB Interview
3. Medical Examination
9. What branches are available in AFCAT 2026?
Flying Branch, AE (Electronics), AE (Mechanical), Weapon Systems, Administration, Logistics, Accounts, Education, Meteorology, and NCC Special Entry.
10. How can I apply for AFCAT 2026?
You can apply online at: https://afcat.edcil.co.in