Indian Air Force AFCAT Portal has released the official notification for AFCAT 02/2026 Recruitment for Commissioned Officer posts in the Flying Branch, Ground Duty (Technical), and Ground Duty (Non-Technical) branches. Both male and female candidates are eligible to apply for this prestigious opportunity to join the Indian Air Force as officers.
The online application process will begin on 20 May 2026 and will remain open until 19 June 2026 (11:30 PM). Selected candidates will commence training in July 2027.
Indian Air Force AFCAT Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Indian Air Force |
| Exam Name | AFCAT 02/2026 |
| Post Name | Commissioned Officer (Flying Branch and Ground Duty Branches) |
| Total Vacancies | 300+ (Expected) |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Registration Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 19 June 2026 |
| Course Commencement | July 2027 |
| Official Website | https://afcat.cdac.in |
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | May 2026 |
| Apply Online Start | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | 19 June 2026 |
| Course Start | July 2027 |
Application Fee
| Entry Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| AFCAT Entry | ₹550/- |
| NCC Special Entry | No Fee |
| Meteorology Entry | No Fee |
AFCAT 02/2026 Vacancy Details
The official notification indicates 300+ expected vacancies for Commissioned Officer posts in:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty (Technical)
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
- NCC Special Entry
- Meteorology Entry
Candidates are advised to refer to the detailed notification on the AFCAT Official Website for branch-wise vacancies and educational qualifications.
Educational Qualification
Candidates must meet branch-specific educational requirements, which generally include:
- Graduation in relevant disciplines
- Engineering degree for Technical Branches
- Physics and Mathematics at 10+2 level for certain branches
Detailed qualification criteria are available in the official notification.
Age Limit
Flying Branch
- 20 to 24 years
- Born between 02 July 2003 and 01 July 2007
- Relaxation up to 26 years for candidates holding a valid Commercial Pilot License
Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical)
- 20 to 26 years
- Born between 02 July 2001 and 01 July 2007
Selection Process
The selection process for AFCAT Recruitment 2026 includes:
- AFCAT Written Examination
- Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Interview
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
Salary and Benefits
Candidates selected as officers in the Indian Air Force receive attractive pay under the 7th Pay Commission along with numerous benefits such as:
- Military Service Pay
- Flying Allowance (for Flying Branch)
- Free medical facilities
- Accommodation
- Leave travel concessions
- Insurance and pension benefits
Training and Course Commencement
The training course for selected candidates will begin in July 2027 at the Air Force Academy.
How to Apply for Indian Air Force AFCAT Recruitment 2026
Follow these steps to apply online:
- Visit the AFCAT Official Portal.
- Complete the registration using a valid email ID and mobile number.
- Fill out the online application form carefully.
- Upload required documents, photograph, and signature.
- Pay the application fee, if applicable.
- Review all entered details.
- Submit the form before 19 June 2026.
- Download and print the confirmation page for future use.
Why Choose AFCAT?
AFCAT is one of the most respected entry routes into the Indian Air Force. It offers a prestigious officer-level career, excellent salary, adventure, leadership opportunities, and the chance to serve the nation in one of India’s most elite defense organizations.
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FAQs – Indian Air Force AFCAT Recruitment 2026
1. What is the last date to apply for AFCAT 02/2026?
The last date to submit the online application is 19 June 2026 (11:30 PM).
2. How many vacancies are available in AFCAT Recruitment 2026?
More than 300 vacancies are expected across various branches.
3. What is the application fee for AFCAT Entry?
Candidates applying through AFCAT Entry need to pay ₹550/-.
4. Can women apply for AFCAT 02/2026?
Yes, both male and female candidates are eligible to apply.
5. When will the training course commence?
The training course is scheduled to begin in July 2027.
