Indian Air Force AFCAT 02/2026 Notification – 379 Officer Posts
The Indian Air Force has officially released the AFCAT 02/2026 notification, offering a golden opportunity for candidates to join as commissioned officers in the Flying and Ground Duty branches.
This recruitment drive is part of the prestigious Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT), which selects candidates for Group ‘A’ Gazetted Officer posts in the Indian Air Force.
A total of 379 officer vacancies have been announced for 2026 across multiple branches.
AFCAT 02/2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Release | May 2026 |
| Online Application Start Date | 20 May 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | 19 June 2026 |
| Last Date for Fee Payment | 19 June 2026 |
| AFCAT Admit Card | July 2026 (Expected) |
| AFCAT Exam Date | 08 August 2026 (Expected) |
| AFSB Interview | Sep–Oct 2026 (Expected) |
| Final Merit List | Late 2026 |
AFCAT 02/2026 Vacancy Details (Total: 379 Posts)
The vacancies are distributed across:
- Flying Branch
- Ground Duty (Technical)
- Ground Duty (Non-Technical)
- NCC Special Entry
- GATE Score Entry (Technical roles)
These roles lead to training at the Air Force Academy and commissioning as officers in the Indian Air Force.
Eligibility Criteria
Educational Qualification
- Flying Branch: Graduation with Physics & Maths in 10+2 OR BE/B.Tech
- Ground Duty: Graduation in relevant discipline
Age Limit
- Flying Branch: 20–24 years (approx.)
- Ground Duty: 20–26 years (approx.)
Nationality
- Indian citizen only
Selection Process
- AFCAT Written Exam (CBT)
- AFSB Interview
- Medical Examination
- Final Merit List
AFCAT 02/2026 Salary & Benefits
Selected candidates receive:
- ₹56,100 starting basic pay (Level 10)
- Military Service Pay (MSP)
- Flying Allowance (for pilots)
- Free medical facilities
- Canteen & housing benefits
- Pension (as per service rules)
Why Join Indian Air Force Through AFCAT?
- Prestigious officer-level government job
- High salary with allowances
- Adventure & leadership career
- Strong national service role
- Fast promotions & training opportunities