Indian Air Force Non-Combatant Tradesman Recruitment 2026 complete guide. Check eligibility, age limit, physical standards, selection process, salary, syllabus, form filling process, and important links.
A Golden Opportunity in the Indian Air Force
Every year, thousands of young candidates prepare for X Group and Y Group in the Indian Air Force. But very few know that along with X and Y Group, there is another excellent opportunity called Indian Air Force Non-Combatant (Tradesman) recruitment.
This recruitment comes twice every year and is conducted along with X and Y Group intake. The training is also done at the same Air Force stations, not separately.
The biggest advantage?
Only 10th pass qualification required
Selection process is simple
Written exam is very easy
In this article, you will get A to Z complete information about Indian Air Force Non-Combatant Tradesman recruitment in simple English, with tables, charts, and important links.
What is Indian Air Force Non-Combatant (Tradesman)?
Non-Combatant means non-fighting staff. These personnel do not take part in combat operations. They work as support staff (Tradesmen) in the Indian Air Force.
Common Trades Include:
- Cook
- Washerman (Dhobi)
- Barber
- Cobbler
- Waiter
- Safaiwala (Housekeeping staff)
This recruitment is only for male candidates.
Eligibility Criteria (Educational Qualification)
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Qualification | 10th Pass (Matriculation) |
| Board | Any recognized board |
| Gender | Male only |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Category | All India candidates can apply |
No ITI required
No higher education needed
Age Limit for Air Force Non-Combatant
| Minimum Age | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| 17.5 Years | 21 Years |
Age is calculated as per the official notification.
Physical Standards (Very Important)
Height & Chest Requirements
| Measurement | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Height | 152 cm |
| Chest | 77 cm (minimum) |
| Chest Expansion | 5 cm mandatory |
Even if chest is slightly less, 5 cm expansion is compulsory.
Physical Fitness Test (PFT)
| Activity | Standard |
|---|---|
| Push-ups | 10 |
| Sit-ups | 10 |
| Squats | 20 |
| Running | 1600 meters in 6.5 minutes |
Note:
X & Y Group get 7 minutes, but Non-Combatant gets only 6.5 minutes.
Selection Process – Step by Step
Phase 1: Written Examination
| Subject | Level | Questions |
|---|---|---|
| General English | Class 10 | 10 |
| General Knowledge | Class 10 | 10 |
| Total | 20 Questions |
✔ Very easy paper
✔ Based on basic 10th level knowledge
Phase 2: Physical Fitness Test (PFT)
- Height & Chest measurement
- Running, push-ups, sit-ups, squats
Phase 3: Skill / Trade Test
This is the most important stage.
You must have basic knowledge of the trade you applied for.
Examples:
- Cook → Basic cooking knowledge
- Waiter → Serving & hospitality skills
- Barber → Hair cutting basics
Exam & Selection Location
- Form is filled offline
- You choose Air Force Station while filling form
- Written exam, physical test, and skill test are usually done at the same station
- If you choose Delhi, all tests will be in Delhi only
Salary & Job Type (Agniveer Scheme)
Indian Air Force Non-Combatant Tradesman comes under the Agniveer scheme.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Service Period | 4 Years |
| Scheme | Agniveer |
| Permanent Chance | Decision expected by December 2026 |
| Work Type | Non-Combat / Support Staff |
Form Filling Process (Offline)
- Download official notification
- Fill application form carefully
- Attach required documents
- Send to selected Air Force Station address
- Admit card received after 15–20 days
Important Dates (Expected – 2026)
| Intake | Form Month |
|---|---|
| First Intake | February 2026 |
| Second Intake | September 2026 |
Forms usually start 5–10 days after X & Y Group forms close.
Important Official Links
- Indian Air Force Official Website:
https://indianairforce.nic.in - Air Force Agniveer Details:
https://agnipathvayu.cdac.in
(Always check official notification before applying)
FAQs – Indian Air Force Non-Combatant Tradesman
Q1. Is this recruitment only for boys?
Yes, only male candidates can apply.
Q2. Is written exam difficult?
No, it is very easy, based on Class 10 English & GK.
Q3. Is ITI required?
No, only 10th pass is required.
Q4. Is training done separately?
No, training is done with X & Y Group at Air Force stations.
Q5. How many times recruitment comes in a year?
Twice every year – February and September.
Q6. Is this a permanent job?
Currently under Agniveer (4 years). Permanent absorption decision expected by 2026 end.
