The Indian Air Force has opened online registration for AFCAT 02/2026 to recruit Commissioned Officers in the Flying Branch and Ground Duty branches. A total of 379 vacancies have been announced for both men and women candidates. Registration opened on May 20, 2026, and the last date to apply is June 19, 2026, through the official portal at afcat.edcil.co.in.
This recruitment cycle includes three entry routes — AFCAT, NCC Special Entry for Flying Branch, and GATE Score Entry for Ground Duty Technical branches. Candidates eligible for multiple entries must register separately for each. The IAF has also announced that it will now accept GATE scores for Technical Branch recruitment, offering an AFCAT exemption to qualified GATE candidates.
| Entry | Age Limit |
|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 20 to 24 years (26 with CPL) |
| Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) | 20 to 26 years |
Final year students can also apply provided they have no current backlog. The selection process includes the AFCAT online exam, AFSB interview, Pilot Aptitude Battery Test (for Flying Branch), and medical examination. On commissioning, officers receive a competitive pay package along with flying allowance, accommodation, and insurance cover up to Rs 1.25 crore.
