The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has officially released the AAI Recruitment 2026 Notification under Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT on July 22, 2026, inviting online applications for 389 Manager and Junior Executive (JE) posts across multiple engineering, finance, operations, law, IT, fire services, and other disciplines. This is one of the biggest Central Government Jobs 2026 recruitment drives for graduates, engineers, finance professionals, and experienced candidates looking for a career in India’s aviation sector.
Candidates can submit their online applications from August 8, 2026, to September 7, 2026 through the official AAI recruitment portal. The selection process includes a Computer-Based Test (CBT) followed by post-specific stages such as interviews, document verification, physical tests, or voice tests depending on the post applied for.
Manabadi brings you the complete details of AAI Recruitment 2026, including vacancy details, eligibility, important dates, age limit, salary, selection process, exam pattern, application fee, and the step-by-step online application process
AAI Recruitment 2026 Overview
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Recruitment Authority | Airports Authority of India (AAI) |
| Advertisement Number | 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT |
| Recruitment Name | AAI Recruitment 2026 |
| Total Vacancies | 389 Posts |
| Posts | Manager (E-3) & Junior Executive (E-1) |
| Notification Release Date | July 22, 2026 |
| Online Application Starts | August 8, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | September 7, 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online |
| Selection Process | CBT + Post-specific Tests |
| Official Website | https://www.aai.aero |
AAI Recruitment 2026 Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Notification Released | July 22, 2026 |
| Online Application Starts | August 8, 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply Online | September 7, 2026 |
| Application Fee Payment Last Date | September 7, 2026 |
| Age Limit & Qualification Cut-off Date | September 7, 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | To be Announced |
| Computer Based Test (CBT) | To be Announced |
About Airports Authority of India (AAI)
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is a Government of India Public Sector Enterprise (PSU) functioning under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. It is responsible for developing, upgrading, maintaining, and managing civil aviation infrastructure across the country.
AAI manages over 100 airports, including international airports, domestic airports, customs airports, and civil enclaves. It also provides Air Traffic Management (ATM) services across Indian airspace, ensuring safe and efficient aircraft operations.
Every year, AAI recruits talented professionals in engineering, finance, management, operations, IT, law, fire services, and various technical disciplines to strengthen India’s rapidly growing aviation sector.
AAI Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details
AAI has announced 389 vacancies under two major cadres.
Manager (E-3 Level)
Recruitment is available in multiple disciplines including:
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Information Technology (IT)
- Finance
- Architecture
- Official Language
- Corporate Communications
- Law
- Fire Services
- Other specialized engineering disciplines
Junior Executive (E-1 Level)
Recruitment is available for:
- Operations
- Finance
- Law
- Survey & Cartography
These vacancies provide excellent opportunities for candidates seeking PSU Jobs, Engineering Jobs 2026, and Government Aviation Jobs.
AAI Recruitment 2026 Educational Qualification
The educational qualification varies according to the post.
Manager Posts
Candidates should possess:
- BE/B.Tech in the relevant engineering discipline from a recognized university.
- CA/CMA/MBA (Finance) for Finance posts.
- Degree in Law for Legal posts.
- Degree in Architecture for Architecture posts.
- Relevant professional experience wherever prescribed.
Junior Executive Posts
Candidates must possess:
- Bachelor’s Degree in the relevant discipline.
- Engineering degree wherever applicable.
- Additional qualifications as mentioned in the official notification.
Candidates are advised to carefully verify the post-wise educational qualifications before submitting the application.
AAI Recruitment 2026 Age Limit
The upper age limit is calculated as on September 7, 2026.
| Post | Maximum Age |
|---|---|
| Manager | 32 Years |
| Junior Executive | 27 Years |
Age Relaxation
The Government of India reservation policy will apply.
| Category | Relaxation |
|---|---|
| OBC (NCL) | 3 Years |
| SC/ST | 5 Years |
| PwBD | 10 Years |
| Ex-Servicemen | 5 Years |
| Regular AAI Employees | Up to 10 Years |
AAI Recruitment 2026 Selection Process
The Airport Authority of India (AAI) follows a multi-stage selection process to recruit eligible candidates for Manager and Junior Executive posts. The selection procedure varies depending on the post and discipline, but candidates must successfully clear every stage applicable to their post to be considered for final appointment.
Stage 1 – Computer-Based Test (CBT)
The Computer-Based Test (CBT) is the first and most important stage of the recruitment process. All eligible applicants must appear for the online examination conducted by AAI.
The CBT is designed to evaluate candidates on:
- General Intelligence and Reasoning
- General Awareness
- English Language
- Quantitative Aptitude
- Technical/Professional Knowledge related to the post
The examination is conducted online at designated test centers across India. Candidates who score above the prescribed cut-off marks and meet the eligibility criteria will be shortlisted for the next stage of recruitment. The CBT carries significant weight in the overall selection process.
Stage 2 – Document Verification (DV)
Candidates shortlisted after the CBT will be invited for Document Verification (DV). During this stage, AAI verifies the authenticity of all educational, professional, and personal documents submitted by the candidate.
Candidates must produce original documents along with self-attested photocopies, including:
- Class 10 and 12 certificates (proof of date of birth)
- Degree/Engineering/PG certificates and mark sheets
- Experience certificates (where applicable)
- Valid Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS)
- PwBD Certificate (if applicable)
- No Objection Certificate (for Government employees)
- Identity proof such as Aadhaar Card, Passport, PAN Card, or Voter ID
- Passport-size photographs
- Any other documents specified in the official notification
Failure to produce valid documents or submission of false information may result in immediate cancellation of candidature.
Stage 3 – Post-Specific Tests
After document verification, candidates may have to undergo additional assessments depending on the requirements of the post they have applied for. Not every post requires all of these tests.
Personal Interview
For several Manager-level posts, shortlisted candidates may be called for a Personal Interview.
During the interview, the panel evaluates:
- Technical knowledge
- Communication skills
- Leadership and decision-making ability
- Problem-solving approach
- Professional attitude and confidence
- Suitability for the role
The interview helps assess whether the candidate possesses the necessary competencies required for managerial responsibilities.
Physical Measurement Test (PMT)
Certain operational and safety-related posts may require candidates to undergo a Physical Measurement Test (PMT).
This test checks whether candidates meet the prescribed physical standards, such as:
- Height
- Weight
- Chest measurements (where applicable)
- Other physical criteria specified by AAI
Candidates who fail to meet the required standards may be declared ineligible for further stages.
Physical Endurance Test (PET)
For posts requiring physical fitness, candidates must also qualify the Physical Endurance Test (PET).
The PET may include activities such as:
- Running
- Walking
- Physical stamina assessment
- Endurance-based exercises
The objective is to ensure that candidates are physically capable of performing operational duties effectively.
Driving Test
Candidates applying for posts involving vehicle operations or transport responsibilities may have to appear for a Driving Test.
The driving assessment generally evaluates:
- Practical driving skills
- Knowledge of traffic rules
- Vehicle handling ability
- Safe driving practices
Candidates must possess a valid driving licence wherever required.
Voice Test
For specific communication-related positions, candidates may undergo a Voice Test.
The assessment checks:
- Clarity of speech
- Pronunciation
- Fluency in communication
- Ability to communicate effectively in operational situations
This ensures candidates can perform communication-intensive duties efficiently.
Background Verification
Before the final appointment, AAI conducts a Background Verification to verify the candidate’s credentials and suitability for employment.
This process includes verification of:
- Educational qualifications
- Previous employment records
- Character and conduct
- Identity and address
- Criminal record (if any)
Any discrepancy or adverse report may lead to cancellation of the candidature.
Medical Fitness
Candidates selected through all applicable stages must also satisfy the medical fitness standards prescribed by the Airport Authority of India. They may be required to undergo a medical examination at an authorized medical facility before receiving the final appointment letter.
Final Selection
The final merit list will be prepared based on the candidate’s performance in the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and all other applicable stages such as the Interview, PMT, PET, Driving Test, Voice Test, Document Verification, and Medical/Background Verification, depending on the post.
Only candidates who successfully qualify every stage applicable to their respective post and fulfill all eligibility conditions will be offered appointment in the Airport Authority of India (AAI).
AAI Recruitment 2026 Exam Pattern
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Mode | Computer Based Test (CBT) |
| Question Type | Objective (MCQs) |
| Duration | 120 Minutes |
| Language | English & Hindi |
| Marking Scheme | 1 Mark for Each Correct Answer |
| Negative Marking | No Negative Marking |
The CBT will assess candidates on discipline-specific knowledge along with general aptitude wherever applicable.
AAI Recruitment 2026 Application Fee
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| General/OBC/EWS | ₹1,000 |
| SC/ST/PwBD/Female Candidates/Apprentices (as applicable in the notification) | Fee concessions/exemptions as per AAI rules |
Applicants should verify the applicable fee category in the official notification before payment.
How to Apply for AAI Recruitment 2026
Candidates who meet the prescribed eligibility criteria can apply for the AAI Recruitment 2026 through the online application portal. Applications are accepted only in online mode, and candidates should carefully complete each step before the deadline.
Step 1: Visit the Official AAI Website
Open your web browser and visit the official Airport Authority of India (AAI) recruitment portal. On the homepage, navigate to the Careers or Recruitment section where all the latest recruitment notifications are published.
Step 2: Open the Recruitment Notification
Locate the notification titled “AAI Recruitment 2026 – Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT”. Read the complete notification carefully to understand the eligibility criteria, age limit, educational qualifications, application fee, selection process, and important instructions before proceeding with the application.
Step 3: Register Yourself
Click on the Apply Online link. If you are a new user, complete the registration process by providing:
- Full Name
- Valid Mobile Number
- Active Email ID
- Date of Birth
- Password for Login
After successful registration, your registration number and login credentials will be sent to your registered email ID and mobile number.
Step 4: Log In and Fill the Application Form
Log in using your registration number and password. Complete the online application form by entering accurate information, including:
- Personal Details
- Father’s and Mother’s Name
- Date of Birth
- Gender
- Category
- Nationality
- Correspondence and Permanent Address
- Educational Qualifications
- Professional Experience (if applicable)
- Post Preference
- Examination Centre Preference
Ensure that all information matches your official documents.
Step 5: Upload Required Documents
Candidates must upload scanned copies of the required documents in the prescribed format and file size mentioned in the notification.
The required documents generally include:
- Recent Passport-size Photograph
- Signature
- Left Thumb Impression
- Handwritten Declaration
- Educational Qualification Certificates and Mark Sheets
- Experience Certificates (where applicable)
- Category Certificate (SC/ST/OBC-NCL/EWS), if applicable
- PwBD Certificate (if applicable)
- Other supporting documents as specified by AAI
Blurred or incorrectly formatted documents may lead to rejection of the application.
Step 6: Pay the Application Fee
After uploading the documents, proceed to the online payment page.
Candidates can pay the application fee using available online payment options such as:
- Debit Card
- Credit Card
- Net Banking
- UPI
- Other digital payment methods provided on the portal
Candidates belonging to fee-exempt categories should verify their exemption before proceeding.
Step 7: Preview the Application
Before final submission, carefully review every detail entered in the application form.
Check the following:
- Personal Information
- Educational Qualifications
- Work Experience
- Uploaded Documents
- Category Details
- Contact Information
- Examination Centre Preference
If any mistakes are found, correct them before submitting the application. Once the application is finally submitted, editing may not be permitted.
Step 8: Submit the Application
After verifying all the information, click on the Final Submit button to complete the application process.
A confirmation message and application number will be generated after successful submission.
Step 9: Download and Print the Confirmation Page
Download the completed application form and payment receipt (if applicable). Take a printout of the confirmation page and keep it safely for future reference.
Candidates should retain copies of:
- Submitted Application Form
- Fee Payment Receipt
- Registration Details
- Uploaded Documents
These documents may be required during Document Verification, the Interview, or other stages of the recruitment process.
Important Instructions
- Apply only through the official AAI recruitment portal.
- Use a valid email ID and mobile number throughout the recruitment process.
- Ensure that all details entered in the application form are accurate and supported by valid documents.
- Upload documents only in the prescribed format and size.
- Submit the application well before the closing date to avoid last-minute technical issues.
- Keep your registration number, password, and application printout safe until the recruitment process is completed.
Documents Required
Applicants should keep the following documents ready:
- 10th Certificate
- Degree/BE/B.Tech Certificates
- Experience Certificate (where applicable)
- Category Certificate
- PwBD Certificate (if applicable)
- Photo Identity Proof
- Passport-size Photograph
- Signature
- Left Thumb Impression
- Handwritten Declaration
Why AAI Jobs Are Highly Preferred
Working with the Airports Authority of India offers several advantages:
- Central Government PSU Job
- Excellent Salary Package
- DA, HRA, Medical Benefits
- Career Growth Opportunities
- Job Security
- Promotion Prospects
- Retirement Benefits
- Work in India’s Fastest Growing Aviation Sector
Important Instructions for Candidates
- Apply only through the official online portal.
- Use an active mobile number and email ID.
- Upload documents in the prescribed format.
- Check eligibility before applying.
- Submit the application before September 7, 2026.
- Keep a printed copy of the submitted application.