How to Join Air Force in India (IAF): Eligibility, Salary & Benefits 

Are you wondering how to join Indian Air force and wish to serve the nation? The Indian Air Force (IAF), is a body that safeguards India’s skies and borders. Founded in 1932, the IAF boasts highly skilled and trained officers. These officers are trained with state-of-the-art technology to defend the nation’s pride. The Indian Air […] The post How to Join Air Force in India (IAF): Eligibility, Salary & Benefits  appeared first on Chegg India.

How to Join Air Force in India (IAF): Eligibility, Salary & Benefits

Are you wondering how to join Indian Air force and wish to serve the nation? The Indian Air Force (IAF), is a body that safeguards India’s skies and borders. Founded in 1932, the IAF boasts highly skilled and trained officers. These officers are trained with state-of-the-art technology to defend the nation’s pride.

The Indian Air Force serves as a vital component of India’s military might. From providing humanitarian aid during natural disasters to carrying out surgical strikes across the border, the IAF has been securing India.

Being an Indian Air Force officer comes with a lot of duties. The officers are expected to be fit, agile, and possess good tech skills. The Airforce officers should also uphold the values of integrity, courage, selfless service, and commitment to the nation and its people.

This article will delve deeper into how to join Indian Air Force, its selection process through NDA, AFCAT, and NCC, and more for Indian Air Force Recruitment 2023. 

How to Join Air Force Through the NDA (National Defence Academy)?

For individuals who often ask how to join Indian Airforce through NDA, follow the steps given below:

First, apply to the National Defence Academy (NDA).
After that, shortlisted candidates undergo a three-year training program at the NDA.
Then, you undergo special training at one of the training centers of NDA.
Finally, you become Permanent IAF Officers at any of the Air Force Stations.

The table below shows the complete details of joining the Indian Airforce through NDA:

Particulars	Details
Recruitment Drive Managed By	UPSC
Type of Commission	Permanent
Gender	Men and women (Unmarried)
Airforce Age Limit	16 ½ to 19 ½ years (at the time of commencement of course)
Nationality	Indian
Branches	Flying Branch. Technical Branch. Non-technical Branch.
Education	10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics. Final-year students can also apply.
Training	National Defence Academy (NDA)

How to Join Air Force Through the AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test)?

The most common method to join the Indian Airforce is through AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test). The AFCAT exam is open to those who have completed their graduation or post-graduation and wish to join the Indian Air Force.

AFCAT also provides entry to the

Flying branch.
Ground Duty (Technical) Branch.
Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch.

Here are the details of the AFCAT exam:

Exam Particulars	Details
Exam Name	AFCAT
Mode of Exam	Online (English Only)
Subjects	General Awareness. Verbal Ability in English. Numerical Ability. Reasoning and Military Aptitude.
No. of Questions	100
Max Marks	300
Duration	2 Hours
Correct Answer.	3 Marks
Wrong Answer.	(-)1 Marks

How to Join the Air Force Through the NCC (National Cadet Corps)?

The NCC Air Wing hires aspirants from schools, colleges, and universities. The chosen ones then get military training in marches and small weapons.

By enrolling in the NCC entry program, one can become a part of the Flying branch, as outlined below:

Gender	Male & Female (Unmarried)
Airforce Age Limit	20 to 24 years
Month of notice	June & December on www.afcat.cdac.in
Advertisement released by	Indian Air Force/ DISHA Cell
Training	Air Force Academy
Marital status	Unmarried
Other eligibility	Should have a valid NCC “Air” Wing ‘C’ Certificate.

IAF Officer Rank Structure and Career Progression

Whether you join Indian Airforce through NDA, AFCAT, or NCC, you join as a Flying Officer. After every certain year, you get promoted to higher positions.

The IAF rank structure and career growth look as follows:

Rank	Indian Airforce Positions	Job Levels
I	Flying Officer Flying Lieutenant	Junior Level
III	Squadron Leader Wing Commander Group Captain	Executive Level
III	Air Comrade Air Vice-Marshal Air Marshal	Director Level
IV	Air Chief Marshal	Chief

IAF Technical and Non-Technical Branches

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is divided into two main branches – the Technical Branch and the Non-Technical Branch.

The Technical Branch comprises engineers who maintain and operate aircraft, radars, and other equipment used by the IAF.

On the other hand, the Non-Technical Branch consists of administrative and logistics officers who provide support services to the IAF.

The table below provides a brief overview of the two branches:

Branch	Sub-Branches
Technical Branch	Mechanical, Electronics, Ground Duty
Non-Technical Branch	Administration, Accounts, Logistics

A Part-time Job that Pays like Full-time

IAF Salary and Benefits 

The salary structure of the IAF varies based on the rank, experience, and type of commission of the personnel. Here are some of the benefits and allowances provided to IAF personnel from different branches:

Indian Airforce Salary Structure 2023

The table below shows the Indian Airforce salary structure for 2023:

Particulars	Details
Rank	Flying Officer
Level	10
Pay as per the defense matrix	INR 56,100-1,77,500
Military Service Pay (MSP)	INR 15,500 per month

Salary for Flying Branch 2023

The table below shows the salary of the Flying Branch:

Salary Components	Amount (INR)
TA ( For X Cities)	56,100
MSP	15,500
DA (28%)	15,708
Flying Pay	25,000
TA ( For X Cities)	7,200
DA on TA (28%)	2,016
Kit Maintenance	600
Gross Salary	1,22,024
In-hand Salary	85.372
Annual Package	8-10 LPA

Salary for Ground Duty (Technical) Branch 2023

The table below shows the salary of the Ground Duty (Technical) Branch:

Salary Components	Amount (INR)
Basic Pay	56,100
MSP	15,500
DA (28%)	15,708
Technical Pay	10,000
TA ( For X Class Cities)	7,200
DA on TA (28%)	2,016
Gross Salary	1,06,524
In-hand Salary	74,872
Annual Salary	7-9 LPA

Salary for Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch 2023

The table below shows the salary of the Ground Duty (Non-Technical) Branch:

Salary Components	Amount (INR)
Basic Pay	56,100
MSP	15,500
DA (28%)	15,708
TA ( For X Class Cities)	7,200
DA on TA (28%)	2,016
Gross Salary	96,524
In-hand Salary	71,872
Annual Salary	7-9 LPA

  IAF Lifestyle and Work Culture

As an officer in the Air Force, your job is to protect India’s freedom and follow the law. It’s a big duty, but being in the Air Force also means you can live a good life. Air Force life is not the same as civilian life because it offers many benefits, like adventure, excitement, and respect.

Under your work culture, you’ll have access to great sports, recreation, education, and more facilities. The Air Force lifestyle promotes good health and a good routine. You’ll have lots of time to spend with your family and build strong relations with your colleagues and extended family.

Also Read: AFCAT Salary 2023 | Job Profile, Pay Scale, Allowances & Other Benefits

  IAF Perks and Facilities

When you join the Indian Air Force, you have access to a lot of facilities and perks. The table below shows the extras and facilities that an Indian Airforce officer enjoys:

Perks	Details
Major Benefits	Insurance. Loans. Medical. Educational Opportunities.
Other Benefits	Accommodation. Leave- Annual leave for 60 days and casual leave of 20 days per year. Leave travel concessions. Institute and Messes membership. School facilities. Rail concessions. Secured camp life. CSD facilities. Recreational and sports facilities.
Post-retirement Benefits	Pension. Insurance. Medical

IAF Job Responsibilities and Duties

 Below is a table explaining the job responsibilities and duties for the Flying, Technical, and Non-Technical branches of the Indian Air Force:

Branch	Job Responsibilities and Duties
Flying Branch	– Conducting aerial operations like combat, transport, and reconnaissance.
	– Piloting aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
	– Navigation, communication, and surveillance during flights.
Technical Branch	Mechanical Sub-Branch:
	– Maintenance and repair of engines, airframes, and mechanical systems.
	– Conducting technical inspections and troubleshooting mechanical issues.
	Electronics Sub-Branch:
	– Maintenance and repair of avionics, communication, and navigation systems.
	– Troubleshooting electronic systems and conducting technical inspections.
	Ground Duty Sub-Branch:
	– Maintenance and operation of ground-based equipment like radars.
	– Ensuring proper functioning of missile systems and other equipment.
Non-Technical Branch	Administration Sub-Branch:
	– Personnel management and administration.
	– Maintaining personnel records and conducting training programs.
	Accounts Sub-Branch:
	– Financial management and accounting.
	– Budgeting and procurement of equipment and resources.
	Logistics Sub-Branch:
	– Procurement and supply of equipment and resources.
	– Transportation and maintenance of equipment and resources.

IAF Interview Tips and Preparation Techniques  

Below are some preparation tips for the NDA, AFCAT, and NCC:

Preparation Tips For NDA

Join good coaching for NDA training.
Improve physical fitness through regular exercise.
Learn time skills for physical fitness, academics, and other activities.

Preparation Tips For AFCAT

Understand the exam pattern and syllabus nicely.
Prepare a study plan and give enough time for each section.
Practice time skills to complete the exam within the given time limit.
Take online mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
Read newspapers and current affairs daily to stay updated on current events.
Practice solving maths problems timely.

Preparation Tips For NCC

Attend NCC training sessions to develop physical and mental fitness.
Learn basic military tactics and strategy.
Develop leadership and teamwork skills by participating in group activities.
Practice discipline and obedience.
Take part in NCC camps and other outdoor activities.
Attend lectures and seminars on military and defense-related topics to improve knowledge and awareness.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for an IAF interview:

Be prepared to answer questions about your background, education, and experience.
Research the IAF’s current operations and missions.
Be familiar with the technology and equipment used by the IAF.
Understand the physical requirements of the IAF.
Practice answering questions about your motivation for joining the IAF and your long-term goals.
Be confident and composed during the interview.

IAF Recruitment Process and Timeline.

The Airforce recruitment is carried out in the following four steps:

STEP 1 – Advertisement

The table below shows the advertisement details for NDA, AFCAT, and NCC:

Different Recruitment Methods	Details
For NDA	The notice for NDA is released twice a year in the months of June and December by UPSC.
AFCAT	For branches except for NDA, aspirants are required to appear for the AFCAT. AFCAT is held twice a year in the months of February and August. The IAF releases notices for AFCAT in June and December.
NCC Entrance	Aspirants holding Air Sqn NCC Senior division ‘C’ certificate are to apply online through NCC Special entry.

Step 2 – AFSB (AIR FORCE SELECTION BOARD) TESTING

You’ll get a call letter after you pass stage 1 with flying colors. Typically, one of the Air Force Selection Boards at Dehradun, Varanasi, Gandhinagar, or Mysuru is where you must appear for testing.

You are subjected to the following tests at these AFSBs:

Testing Stages	Tests
Stage I	Psychological Tests. Group Tests. Interview. Computerized Pilot Selection System (CPSS) test (for Flying Branch).
Stage II	Psychological Tests. Group Tests. Interview. Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) test (for Flying Branch).

Step-3 Medical Exams

Next, the medical exams are scheduled as per the selection committee. The Air Force Central Medical Establishment (AFCME) in New Delhi or the Institute of Aviation Medicine in Bengaluru will host the medical examination.

Step 4: All India Merit List

An All India Merit List is created based on your performance on the written exam and in the AFSB interview, as well as your physical and mental health. Following that, individuals are given joining instructions depending on the openings in various branches or sub-branches and are told to join one of the training facilities.

Indian Air Force: Challenging Yet Rewarding Career

To join the Indian Air Force (IAF), candidates must meet the eligibility criteria, including age, educational qualifications, and physical standards. The selection process consists of written tests, physical fitness tests, medical examinations, and interviews. After selection, candidates take training before being posted into the IAF.

The salary and benefits offered to Indian Air Force officers include medical, housing, and retirement benefits. But, the salary varies depending on the rank and experience of the aspirant. Thus, joining the IAF offers a great chance to serve the nation and build a rewarding career in the defense sector.

Evaluate numerous career choices to choose the right career path for yourself. Dive in to our guide on Career Advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I join the Air Force after the 12th? 

Yes, you can join the Air Force after the 12th through NDA. To get into Air Force after 12^th you need to qualify for NDA exams conducted by UPSC. After which you will be trained under NDA for 3 years. Then, you undergo special training at one of the training centers of NDA. And finally, you become Permanent IAF Officers at any of the Air Force Stations.

Which exam is required for the Air Force?

Candidates must take the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) for all entries and all branches. It is the most common entrance test for candidates who want to work in Air Force. The exam is held twice a year in February and August. Other than AFCAT, the NDA exam is also a way if you want to get into Air Force just after completing the 12^th.

What is the salary in the Air Force? 

The is 8.0 Lakhs, with salaries ranging from 2.8 Lakhs to 12.0 Lakhs. Note that, this salary range changes according to your designation in the Air Force, years of experience, your mission accomplishments and also changing government policies.