The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the short notice for AFCAT 01/2026, inviting ambitious and eligible candidates to apply online for positions within both the Flying and Ground Duty branches. This crucial notification was published in the Employment Newspaper, detailing that applications will be accepted from November 10, 2025, until December 9, 2025. Prospective candidates are encouraged to submit their applications promptly through the designated official websites.
This extensive recruitment campaign aims to fill numerous Flying Officer vacancies across various specialized branches. To be considered, applicants must meticulously meet the specified educational qualifications and age criteria for their chosen branch. A non-refundable application fee of Rs. 550 is applicable for all categories of candidates, and payment must be completed online during the application process.
Important Dates for AFCAT 01/2026:
The online application window will open at 11:00 am on November 10, 2025, and will close at 11:30 pm on December 9, 2025. Successful candidates are expected to commence their courses in January 2027. The comprehensive notification was circulated in the Employment Newspaper between November 8 and November 14, 2025.
Eligibility and Age Limits for AFCAT 01/2026:
Candidates aspiring for the Flying Branch must be between 20 and 24 years of age. For those interested in the Ground Duty Branch, which includes both Technical and Non-Technical roles, the age limit is set between 20 and 26 years. All age calculations will be based on January 1, 2027, with age relaxations provided in accordance with government regulations.
Educational prerequisites vary depending on the branch. Individuals applying for the Flying Branch are typically required to hold a graduate degree or a B.Tech in a relevant field. Ground Duty candidates, on the other hand, need a graduate degree in either technical or non-technical disciplines as specified in the detailed notification.
Application Fee and Payment Method:
A standard application fee of Rs. 550 is mandatory for all candidates, irrespective of their category (General, OBC, EWS, SC, ST, and PWD). Payments can only be made online during the application submission phase.
Selection Process for AFCAT 01/2026:
The comprehensive selection procedure for AFCAT 01/2026 comprises several stages: a written examination, a Service Selection Board (SSB) interview, thorough document verification, and a medical examination. Candidates must successfully clear each stage to be deemed eligible for the final selection.
How to Apply Online for AFCAT 01/2026:
Follow these simple steps to submit your application:
Step 1: Visit the official application portal and create a new user account.
Step 2: Carefully fill in all personal details, educational qualifications, and your preferred branch.
Step 3: Upload all necessary documents, including a recent photograph and signature.
Step 4: Proceed to pay the application fee of Rs. 550 via the online payment gateway.
Step 5: Submit your completed application and remember to download the confirmation page for your records.
Applicants are strongly advised to thoroughly review all eligibility criteria, application guidelines, and deadlines before submitting their applications. The IAF emphasizes the importance of timely submissions to prevent any last-minute complications.