How to become a pilot in Indian Air Force?: Becoming a pilot in the Air Force is not an easy task. It takes a lot of dedication, strong will and courage to accept this challenging and rewarding role. An Indian Air Force pilot has to undergo rigorous training, which includes air-to-air combat while flying a fighter aircraft.
The main responsibility of an Indian Air Force IAF pilot is to complete a mission, which includes attacking enemy bases and rescuing soldiers/civilians or both. In many cases pilots also have to perform some peacekeeping missions. But in most cases, they are trained to fight with their fighters.
Which course should I do to become a pilot in the Air Force?
Joining the Indian Air Force as a pilot is not that easy. There are four ways in which a candidate can become an Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot. National Defense Academy (NDA), Combined Defense Services Examination (CDSE), NCC Admission and Short Service Commission Admission (SSC) are the courses that are the only route to enter the IAF as a Flying Officer. While three methods are considered permanent commission, the last one is temporary. Candidates can join NDA after completing 12th class. For other courses, candidates must be a graduate to apply.
- National Defense Academy (NDA)
- Combined Defense Services Examination (CDSE)
- National Cadet Corps (NCC) Special Admission
- Air Force Common Entrance Test (AFCAT)
National Defense Academy (NDA)
To join the 'Flying Branch' of the Indian Air Force (IAF), candidates must appear in the National Defense Academy (NDA) exam. NDA exam is conducted by Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Candidates who qualify the exam will have to undergo flight training at Air Force Training Establishments after three years of training at NDA. After completion of training, candidates will be appointed as 'Permanent Commissioned Officers' or can be posted as pilots at any Indian Air Force Station.
Combined Defense Services Examination (CDSE)
Apart from NDA, UPSC also conducts CDSE exam for men who aspire to become pilots. After qualifying CDS exam, candidates are eligible for admission in Indian Military Academy/ Indian Naval Academy/ Air Force Academy (AFA). Like NDA training, the candidates here will have to undergo training at Airforce Academy. With the completion of training, candidates will get permanent commissioned officers or can be posted as pilots at any Indian Air Force station.
National Cadet Corps (NCC) Special Admission
Coming to the NCC Special Entry, which is only for men, candidates holding Air Wing Senior Division 'C' Certificate are eligible for National Cadet Corps (NCC) Special Entry. Joining will be done through Directorate General National Cadet Corps or through your respective NCC Air Squadron. This is the special admission case where the candidates will be given the post of 'Permanent Commission Officer'.
Air Force Common Entrance Test (AFCAT)
Air Force Common Entrance Test - AFCAT is open to both male and female candidates. This exam is conducted by IAF for admission to the Short Service Commission (SSC) for a period of 14 years. These candidates are hired on technical branches and ground duty branches. This exam is conducted twice a year.