AAI Recruitment 2026: Airports Authority of India (AAI) Recruitment 2026 is an important opportunity for candidates interested in working in India’s aviation and airport management sector. AAI recruits professionals for engineering, airport operations, finance, law, information technology, management and other technical and administrative positions. It also publishes separate notifications for apprentices, consultants and specialist contractual roles.
One of the major recruitment drives announced in 2026 is the direct recruitment of Managers and Junior Executives under Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT. The notification covers 389 vacancies across various disciplines. The application period ran from August 8 to September 7, 2026, and is now closed. The Computer-Based Test (CBT) has been scheduled for October 21 and October 26, 2026, depending on the post. Candidates who applied should check their individual admit cards and the official AAI recruitment dashboard for the latest instructions.
AAI has also published other recruitment and engagement notices during 2026, including consultant and apprenticeship opportunities. These have separate eligibility requirements, deadlines and selection procedures.
This article explains AAI Recruitment 2026, including vacancy details, educational qualifications, age limits, salary, selection process, examination information, application procedures and important official links.
AAI Recruitment 2026: Overview
Candidates can review the main details of the Manager and Junior Executive recruitment below.
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Organisation | Airports Authority of India |
| Common abbreviation | AAI |
| Parent ministry | Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India |
| Major recruitment advertisement | 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT |
| Posts | Managers and Junior Executives |
| Total vacancies | 389 |
| Application mode | Online |
| Application start date | August 8, 2026 |
| Application deadline | September 7, 2026 |
| Application status | Closed |
| Computer-Based Test dates | October 21 and October 26, 2026, according to post |
| Admit card | Released for the CBT; check the official portal |
| Job location | As specified in the advertisement |
| Official website | https://www.aai.aero/ |
| Recruitment dashboard | https://www.aai.aero/en/careers/recruitment |
This overview relates to the 389-post direct recruitment drive. Other AAI notifications published during 2026 must be checked separately because their deadlines, qualifications and appointment conditions can differ.
AAI Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details
The major recruitment notification under Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT covers 389 Manager and Junior Executive posts in various disciplines.
These positions support different parts of airport infrastructure, aviation operations and organisational administration. The qualifications required depend on the discipline and level of the advertised post.
AAI recruitment may include opportunities in areas such as:
- Engineering and technical services
- Airport operations
- Information technology
- Finance and accounts
- Legal services
- Commercial functions
- Fire services
- Corporate communications
- Survey and cartography
- Other specialised disciplines listed in the notification
Not all these disciplines necessarily appear in every recruitment drive. Candidates should refer to the post-wise vacancy table in the relevant advertisement to identify available positions.
Manager and Junior Executive vacancies
The 389 vacancies are divided between Manager and Junior Executive positions. The precise distribution depends on the disciplines listed in the advertisement.
The recruitment dashboard provides the notification and relevant updates. Candidates should use the original vacancy table to confirm the number of posts for each discipline and reservation category.
Before applying for a particular AAI vacancy, check the following:
- The exact name of the post.
- The number of vacancies in the relevant discipline.
- The educational qualification and specialisation.
- The required work experience, if applicable.
- The age limit and applicable relaxation.
- The pay scale and appointment conditions.
- The selection method and examination scheme.
Other AAI Recruitment Opportunities in 2026
AAI publishes recruitment notifications throughout the year, so the term “AAI Recruitment 2026” does not refer to only one application process.
The official recruitment dashboard lists other opportunities, including consultant engagements and apprenticeship programmes. Some are regional, while others are intended for specific specialist roles.
Examples of separate notices listed during 2026 include:
- Consultants in various disciplines at the Southern Region headquarters.
- Contractual consultants for Corporate Communications.
- Consultants for specialist technical and operational roles.
- Graduate, diploma and ITI apprenticeship programmes.
- Other contractual and advisory positions.
These opportunities should not be combined with the 389 Manager and Junior Executive vacancies. Each notice has its own advertisement, eligibility criteria and deadline.
Candidates looking for currently open vacancies should visit the official recruitment dashboard and check the application status shown against the particular advertisement.
Important Dates for AAI Recruitment 2026
The following table summarises the dates for the main Manager and Junior Executive recruitment drive.
| Recruitment event | Date or status |
|---|---|
| Recruitment notification published | July 2026 |
| Online application begins | August 8, 2026 |
| Last date to apply | September 7, 2026 |
| Computer-Based Test | October 21 and October 26, 2026, depending on post |
| Admit card | Released for the CBT |
| Results and further selection stages | Await official announcements |
The application deadline has passed. Candidates who did not apply cannot submit a fresh application under this closed registration window unless AAI officially announces a reopening or a new recruitment drive.
Candidates who have already applied should check the date, reporting time, shift and examination centre printed on their admit card. The examination date may differ between posts.
Educational Qualification for AAI Recruitment 2026
The educational qualification depends on the position and discipline. There is no single degree requirement that applies to every Manager and Junior Executive vacancy.
Technical posts may require an engineering degree in a specified branch. Other positions may require a degree or professional qualification in finance, law, information technology, management or another relevant discipline.
Manager-level positions may also require relevant work experience, whereas Junior Executive positions can have different requirements.
Candidates should verify the following details in the official advertisement:
- The exact degree or professional qualification required.
- The accepted academic discipline or specialisation.
- Whether the qualification must be obtained from a recognised institution.
- Minimum marks or other academic conditions, where specified.
- Required professional registration, if applicable.
- Work experience and its prescribed duration, if required.
- The cut-off date for obtaining the required qualification.
A degree in one subject does not automatically make a candidate eligible for all AAI posts. The advertised discipline and eligibility conditions must match the applicant’s qualifications.
Age Limit for AAI Recruitment 2026
The age limit varies according to the post and is calculated using the date specified in the advertisement.
The recruitment notification provides different age conditions for Manager and Junior Executive positions. The reported upper age limits for the main recruitment are generally 32 years for Manager posts and 27 years for Junior Executive posts, subject to the particular position and applicable rules.
Age relaxation may be available to eligible candidates from specified reserved categories and other groups under the applicable government rules.
| Candidate group | What to check |
|---|---|
| General category | Maximum age for the selected post |
| SC/ST candidates | Applicable age relaxation and supporting certificate |
| OBC candidates | Applicable category and relaxation conditions |
| Persons with benchmark disabilities | Eligible relaxation under the notification |
| Other eligible categories | Special provisions specified in the advertisement |
Candidates should not rely solely on the general age limits shown in a summary. The official advertisement specifies the age cut-off date, post-wise rules and supporting documents needed to claim relaxation.
AAI Recruitment 2026 Salary
AAI salary depends on the post, pay scale and applicable service rules. Manager and Junior Executive positions have different pay structures.
The direct recruitment notification specifies the remuneration for each advertised level. In addition to basic pay, eligible employees may receive applicable allowances and benefits according to AAI rules.
The actual take-home salary can differ because of allowances, deductions, posting and other employment conditions.
Benefits of working with AAI
Depending on the appointment and applicable rules, a regular position may provide:
- A defined pay structure.
- Applicable allowances and benefits.
- Experience in the aviation and airport infrastructure sector.
- Opportunities to develop technical or managerial skills.
- Career progression according to the relevant service rules.
Apprenticeship and contractual roles have different conditions. Candidates should not assume that an apprentice stipend or consultant fee is equivalent to the salary and benefits of a regular employee.
Application Fee for AAI Recruitment 2026
The application fee for the Manager and Junior Executive recruitment is governed by Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT.
The reported fee for eligible General, EWS and OBC candidates is ₹1,000. Fee exemptions apply to specified categories, including eligible SC/ST and persons with benchmark disabilities, women candidates and AAI apprentices, subject to the notification’s conditions.
Candidates should check the official advertisement to confirm the fee applicable to their category. Since the application period has closed, this information is useful for applicants reviewing their submitted forms or preparing for future recruitment.
Do not pay an individual or unofficial agent who promises a job, guaranteed selection or access to a recruitment process.
AAI Recruitment 2026 Selection Process
The selection process depends on the position. For the 389-post Manager and Junior Executive recruitment, the process includes a Computer-Based Test and further stages as prescribed for the relevant post.
Candidates should read the detailed advertisement to understand the requirements for their discipline.
1. Computer-Based Test
The CBT assesses candidates according to the examination scheme specified for their position. Applicants should review the official syllabus and instructions for the number of questions, duration, marking rules and qualifying conditions.
2. Application and eligibility verification
AAI may verify the candidate’s educational qualifications, age, experience and other eligibility details. Candidates must ensure that the information provided in the application matches their original documents.
3. Interview or additional assessment
Depending on the post and the official selection scheme, additional stages may apply. Candidates should not assume that every Manager or Junior Executive post follows an identical process.
4. Document verification
Candidates may need to produce educational certificates, proof of date of birth, identity documents, category certificates and experience documents where applicable.
5. Final selection
Final selection depends on the prescribed selection criteria, performance and verification of eligibility. Appearing for the CBT does not guarantee an appointment.
AAI Recruitment 2026 Exam Date and Admit Card
The CBT for Manager and Junior Executive posts has been scheduled for October 21 and October 26, 2026, depending on the post code. Candidates should check the date printed on their own admit cards rather than assuming that every applicant has the same examination schedule.
The admit card has been reported as released for this recruitment drive.
How to download the AAI admit card?
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official AAI website at https://www.aai.aero/.
- Open the Careers or Recruitment section.
- Visit the recruitment dashboard.
- Locate Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT.
- Open the relevant admit card or call-letter link.
- Enter the registration details requested by the portal.
- Download and print your admit card.
- Check the examination date, reporting time, shift, centre address and instructions.
If the admit card link is unavailable, check the latest notice on the official recruitment dashboard. Follow the instructions issued by AAI for any correction or technical problem.
How to Apply for Future AAI Recruitment?
The application window for the 389 Manager and Junior Executive posts is closed. Candidates who missed the deadline should monitor the official dashboard for future recruitment notices and any separately advertised vacancies.
When a suitable recruitment opens, the general application process is as follows:
- Visit https://www.aai.aero/en/careers/recruitment.
- Find the current advertisement for the position you want.
- Read the eligibility requirements and selection process.
- Open the application link provided in the official notice.
- Register using accurate contact and personal details.
- Complete the application form.
- Upload the required photograph, signature and supporting documents.
- Pay the application fee if applicable.
- Review the details carefully before submitting.
- Save the final application and payment confirmation.
The exact steps can differ between advertisements. Always follow the instructions for the specific recruitment rather than relying on an older application guide.
Documents Required for AAI Recruitment
Candidates should prepare the documents requested in the relevant notification.
Commonly required documents may include:
- Educational certificates and mark sheets.
- Proof of date of birth.
- Government-issued photo identity proof.
- Recent photograph and signature.
- Category certificate, if applicable.
- Disability certificate, where applicable.
- Work experience certificates, if required.
- Professional qualification or registration documents, where applicable.
- Other records specified in the advertisement.
The exact document list depends on the post. Candidates should follow the portal’s instructions for file formats, sizes and document validity.
Preparation Tips for AAI Recruitment 2026
Candidates who have applied for the CBT should focus on the official examination scheme and their own post requirements.
Review the syllabus
Use the syllabus and examination details provided by AAI. Concentrate on the subjects relevant to the position rather than studying from an unrelated recruitment syllabus.
Practise mock tests
Mock tests can help candidates become familiar with the examination format, manage time and identify weaker topics.
Revise technical subjects
Applicants for engineering, information technology or other technical disciplines should revise the relevant core concepts and practise suitable objective questions.
Check the admit card carefully
Verify the examination date, centre address, reporting time and permitted items before travelling to the centre.
Keep documents ready
Organise identity proof and any other documents required for entry or later verification.
Follow official updates
Examination instructions can change through official notices. Candidates should check the AAI website for updates instead of relying on social media messages alone.
Important Links for AAI Recruitment 2026
The following table contains useful official resources for recruitment notices and examination updates.
| Purpose | Link |
|---|---|
| AAI official website | https://www.aai.aero/ |
| Recruitment dashboard | https://www.aai.aero/en/careers/recruitment |
| Recruitment announcements and press notes | https://aai.aero/en/recruitment/release/all |
| Manager and Junior Executive recruitment | Find Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT on the recruitment dashboard |
| Admit card and CBT updates | Check the relevant advertisement on the official dashboard |
| Examination syllabus | Check the syllabus column for the relevant recruitment |
| Results and selection updates | Check the official AAI recruitment dashboard |
| Apprenticeship opportunities | Check the regional apprenticeship notices on the dashboard |
| Consultant and contractual vacancies | Check the latest official advertisements |
If a direct link is unavailable, visit the official AAI website and navigate to the Careers section. Use the advertisement number to locate the correct recruitment notice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Candidates should avoid these common errors when applying for or attending an AAI recruitment examination:
- Assuming that every AAI vacancy uses the same eligibility rules.
- Confusing regular recruitment with apprenticeship or contractual engagements.
- Relying on an outdated application deadline.
- Missing the date or reporting time printed on the admit card.
- Entering incorrect educational or personal details.
- Failing to carry the documents specified in the examination instructions.
- Paying unofficial agents who claim to guarantee selection.
- Depending on unverified examination dates or result announcements.
Carefully reviewing the official advertisement and admit card can help candidates avoid unnecessary problems.
FAQ about AAI Recruitment 2026
What is AAI Recruitment 2026?
AAI Recruitment 2026 refers to the different recruitment and engagement notices issued by the Airports Authority of India during 2026, including direct recruitment, apprenticeships and contractual positions.
How many vacancies are available in the major AAI recruitment drive?
The major direct recruitment drive under Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT covers 389 Manager and Junior Executive vacancies.
What was the last date to apply for AAI Recruitment 2026?
The last date to apply for the 389 Manager and Junior Executive posts was September 7, 2026. The application window is closed.
When is the AAI Recruitment 2026 examination?
The CBT is scheduled for October 21 and October 26, 2026, depending on the post. Candidates should follow the date and reporting time on their own admit cards.
Has the AAI admit card been released?
The admit card has been reported as released for the Manager and Junior Executive CBT. Candidates should check the official recruitment dashboard to access their call letter.
What qualifications are required for AAI jobs?
The qualification depends on the post. Some positions require engineering degrees, while others require relevant qualifications in law, finance, information technology or another discipline. Work experience may be necessary for certain Manager posts.
What is the age limit for AAI Manager and Junior Executive posts?
The reported upper age limits are generally 32 years for Manager posts and 27 years for Junior Executive posts, subject to the specific position, cut-off date and applicable relaxation rules.
What is the salary for AAI employees?
Salary depends on the post and pay scale specified in the official notification. Candidates should consult the advertisement for the applicable remuneration and benefits.
Are there other AAI vacancies in 2026?
Yes. AAI has published separate notices for consultants, apprentices and other specialist engagements. Their deadlines and eligibility requirements must be checked individually.
Where can I find the official AAI recruitment notification?
Visit https://www.aai.aero/en/careers/recruitment and search for the relevant advertisement number or post name.
Conclusion
AAI Recruitment 2026 offers opportunities for candidates interested in aviation, airport infrastructure, engineering, management and specialist services. The major direct recruitment drive under Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT covers 389 Manager and Junior Executive vacancies.
The application period for that recruitment closed on September 7, 2026. Candidates who applied should check their admit cards and follow the official instructions for the Computer-Based Test scheduled on October 21 or October 26, depending on the post. Those who missed the deadline can monitor the recruitment dashboard for future direct recruitment, apprenticeship and contractual opportunities.
Eligibility, salary, age limits, application fees and selection procedures differ across AAI advertisements. Candidates should therefore read the relevant official notification before making decisions and rely on the AAI website for examination dates, results and subsequent updates. Careful preparation and verification of official information are essential for navigating the recruitment process successfully.
