The air arm of the Indian Armed Forces, the Indian Air Force (IAF), works with a mission to safeguard Indian airspace at any cost. The air warriors put the country’s security above everything else. The IAF has different career opportunities for aspirants, and a flying officer or a pilot is one of them. A career as a pilot gives exposure and rewarding remuneration to officers. Candidates should apply for the flying branch through one of the following entry points to become a pilot in IAF.
Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT)
AFCAT is one of the most common competitive exams for aspirants. It is conducted by the Indian Air Force twice a year. All graduates, post-graduates, and final-year students can appear for this exam after fulfilling the eligibility requirements. The written test is followed by the SSB interview, a CPSS test (once-in-a-lifetime), and a medical test. Through this exam, the Short Service Commission (SSC) is offered to the selected candidates in the Flying Branch.
National Defence Academy (NDA)
NDA exams are conducted twice a year, in April and September. The advertisements will be released in June and December tentatively, on the official website of UPSC (Union Public Service Commission). Students who have passed 10+2 and are in the age bracket of 16.5 to 19.5 years can apply for the NDA. Selected candidates will be trained for three years at the National Defence Academy, followed by specialised training at one of the Air Force Training establishments.
Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE)
This CDSE exam is conducted by the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) twice a year. Entry through this test is available for candidates who have successfully finished graduation from a recognised university. Men aged between 20 and 24 years can appear for the CDSE test. A 2-year upper age relaxation is granted for Commercial Pilot Licence holders.
NCC Special Entry
Unmarried men and women can apply for the post of pilot in IAF through NCC Special entry. Candidates with a valid NCC Air wing “C” certificate can appear for this exam. The IAF releases the advertisements for NCC Special Entry in June and December every year.
Candidates are advised to follow the official website (https://careerairforce.nic.in/) of IAF to get complete details about the exams, like eligibility criteria, educational qualifications, and selection processes of the abovementioned exams.
