Airport Authority of India Recruitment 2026 is an important employment opportunity for candidates seeking careers in aviation, airport management, engineering, technical services and other professional fields. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is a public sector organisation under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. It manages airports, provides air navigation services and supports the development of India’s civil aviation infrastructure.
The AAI Recruitment 2026 drive includes recruitment for Manager and Junior Executive positions, along with separate opportunities for consultants, apprentices and other specialised professionals. Under Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT, AAI announced 389 vacancies for Managers and Junior Executives across different disciplines.
The application window for this major recruitment drive ran from 8 August to 7 September 2026 and is now closed. The computer-based examination is scheduled for 21 October and 26 October 2026, depending on the post. AAI published an admit card notice on 14 October 2026, so candidates who applied should check the official recruitment portal for their hall ticket and examination instructions.
AAI has also published separate notices for consultant positions and other recruitment categories during 2026. These have different eligibility requirements, selection procedures and deadlines.
This article covers Airport Authority of India Recruitment 2026, including the latest vacancy information, educational qualifications, age limits, salary, selection process, examination updates, application instructions and important official links.
Airport Authority of India Recruitment 2026: Overview
The following table summarises the major AAI recruitment drive and the current status of its application process.
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Organisation | Airports Authority of India |
| Abbreviation | AAI |
| Parent ministry | Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India |
| Recruitment year | 2026 |
| Major recruitment advertisement | 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT |
| Posts | Manager and Junior Executive |
| Total vacancies | 389 |
| Application start date | 8 August 2026 |
| Application last date | 7 September 2026 |
| Current application status | Closed for the major direct recruitment drive |
| Examination mode | Computer-based test |
| Scheduled examination dates | 21 October and 26 October 2026, depending on the post |
| Admit card update | Notice published on 14 October 2026 |
| Other recruitment categories | Consultants, apprentices and specialised professional positions |
| Job locations | Various AAI offices, airports and regional locations |
| Selection process | Depends on the post and recruitment advertisement |
| Official website | https://www.aai.aero/ |
| Official recruitment dashboard | View AAI Recruitment Updates |
Important: The 389 vacancies relate to the specified Manager and Junior Executive recruitment advertisement. Other AAI recruitment notices have separate vacancy counts. Candidates should check the relevant official notice for the latest information.
AAI Recruitment 2026 Latest Updates
The Airports Authority of India publishes recruitment notifications for different departments and employment categories throughout the year. Candidates should identify the relevant advertisement before checking eligibility or application dates.
1. Manager and Junior Executive Recruitment 2026
AAI announced 389 vacancies for Managers and Junior Executives under Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT. The recruitment covers multiple disciplines, with the precise post-wise vacancy distribution and eligibility requirements provided in the official advertisement.
The online application window closed on 7 September 2026. The examination schedule subsequently announced computer-based tests for 21 October and 26 October 2026, depending on the post. The admit card notice was published on 14 October 2026.
Candidates who successfully applied should visit the official recruitment dashboard and follow the admit card instructions. They should check the examination date, reporting time, shift, venue and documents required for entry.
New applicants cannot assume that the application form for this recruitment is still available. They should look for other active AAI advertisements or monitor future recruitment announcements.
2. AAI Consultant Recruitment 2026
AAI has also published consultant recruitment notices during 2026. These include an advertisement for 18 consultants in various disciplines at the Southern Region headquarters in Chennai and a separate notice for consultants in the Corporate Communications Directorate.
Consultant appointments are different from regular direct recruitment. They may require professional experience, specialised qualifications and relevant expertise, and may be offered for a specified contractual period.
Candidates interested in these positions should read the individual notice to confirm the eligibility criteria, remuneration, tenure, application method and closing date.
3. AAI Apprentice Recruitment 2026
Apprenticeship opportunities are another category of recruitment associated with AAI. These positions may be available to eligible graduates, diploma holders and ITI-qualified candidates in specified trades or disciplines.
The purpose of apprenticeship recruitment is to provide practical training and workplace experience. The eligibility requirements, training period, stipend and application process depend on the regional notification.
Candidates should understand that an apprenticeship is a training engagement and does not automatically guarantee permanent employment with AAI.
AAI Vacancy 2026: Posts and Disciplines
The 389-post recruitment drive includes Manager and Junior Executive positions across different professional disciplines. Candidates should refer to Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT for the exact vacancy distribution and post codes.
Other recruitment notices may cover consultant, apprentice and specialist roles.
| Post category | General description |
|---|---|
| Manager | Professional, technical, operational or departmental responsibilities according to the discipline |
| Junior Executive | Executive-level work in the relevant technical or professional field |
| Consultant | Specialist advice and professional services under contractual terms |
| Graduate Apprentice | Practical training for eligible graduates |
| Diploma Apprentice | Practical training for eligible diploma holders |
| ITI Apprentice | Trade-related training for eligible ITI candidates |
| Other specialist roles | Duties and qualifications specified in individual advertisements |
This table describes broad recruitment categories. It does not mean that every category is accepting applications at the same time.
For the Manager and Junior Executive recruitment, candidates should use the official advertisement to check the exact number of vacancies in their chosen discipline and category.
Airport Authority of India Recruitment 2026: Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for AAI Recruitment 2026 depend on the position. Educational qualifications, professional experience, age limits and other conditions may differ between Manager, Junior Executive, consultant and apprentice posts.
Candidates should read the complete advertisement before applying.
Educational qualification
Manager and Junior Executive positions generally require qualifications relevant to the advertised discipline. Depending on the post, this may include an engineering degree, a recognised professional qualification or another specific educational credential.
Some positions may require relevant work experience, while others may use additional conditions such as professional registration or accepted examination scores.
For apprenticeship vacancies, the required qualification may be a graduate degree, diploma or ITI certificate in the specified discipline.
Consultant positions may require specialised professional knowledge and substantial experience in a relevant field.
Applicants should confirm:
- The exact educational qualification required for the post.
- Whether the degree or diploma must be from a recognised institution.
- The minimum percentage of marks, if specified.
- Whether professional experience is compulsory.
- Whether a particular examination score or qualification code is required.
- The cut-off date for determining eligibility.
Candidates should not assume that eligibility requirements from a previous recruitment cycle automatically apply to a new advertisement.
Age limit
There is no single age limit applicable to every AAI vacancy. The maximum permissible age depends on the post, recruitment rules and advertisement.
The notification may also specify age relaxation for eligible reserved-category candidates and other groups under the applicable rules.
Applicants should verify the minimum and maximum age, the date used for calculating age, and the documents required to claim any relaxation.
Nationality and other conditions
The official advertisement specifies nationality requirements and any additional eligibility conditions.
Some technical or specialist positions may have particular professional requirements, while apprenticeships may include conditions relating to the qualifying examination or passing year.
Candidates should check every eligibility clause before submitting an application.
AAI Recruitment 2026 Salary and Pay Structure
Salary depends on the post, grade and employment terms. Regular Manager and Junior Executive positions may follow the applicable AAI pay structure, while apprentices and consultants have separate remuneration arrangements.
Candidates should refer to the official advertisement for the exact salary or stipend applicable to their position.
| Employment category | Remuneration information |
|---|---|
| Manager | Pay and allowances according to the applicable grade and recruitment rules |
| Junior Executive | Executive pay structure specified in the official advertisement |
| Graduate Apprentice | Stipend prescribed under the applicable apprenticeship notice |
| Diploma Apprentice | Stipend specified for the relevant apprenticeship category |
| ITI Apprentice | Stipend according to the trade and regional notification |
| Consultant | Professional fee or consolidated remuneration specified in the contract |
| Other specialist positions | Remuneration stated in the relevant advertisement |
The salary structure for a regular position should not be confused with a consultant’s contractual fee or an apprentice’s stipend.
Before accepting an appointment, candidates should review basic pay, allowances, deductions, probation requirements, contract duration and other service conditions. The official advertisement is the most reliable source for these details.
AAI Recruitment 2026: Selection Process
The selection process depends on the post and recruitment category. For the major Manager and Junior Executive recruitment, candidates should follow the computer-based examination instructions and the further stages specified in the official advertisement.
Computer-based test
The Manager and Junior Executive recruitment under Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT includes a computer-based test. The scheduled examination dates are 21 October and 26 October 2026, depending on the post.
Candidates who applied should download their admit cards from the official recruitment portal and check all examination details before travelling to the centre.
The relevant advertisement should be consulted for the examination structure, syllabus, marking scheme and other requirements.
Interview or professional assessment
Some specialist and consultant recruitments may use an interview or professional assessment to evaluate qualifications, relevant experience and suitability for the role.
The assessment procedure may vary considerably between technical, managerial and consultancy positions.
Merit-based selection
Certain apprenticeship recruitments may use academic merit or other prescribed criteria for shortlisting. Candidates should consult the applicable regional notice to understand how the merit list is prepared.
Document verification
Candidates shortlisted for subsequent stages may be required to produce original certificates and supporting documents.
These may include educational certificates, identity proof, experience certificates, category documents and other records required by AAI.
Additional requirements
Some positions may involve medical fitness requirements, professional certifications, physical tests or other assessments. The exact requirements depend on the post.
Meeting the minimum eligibility conditions does not guarantee selection. Final appointment depends on the prescribed selection procedure and verification of the candidate’s documents.
AAI Recruitment 2026 Exam Date and Admit Card
The AAI Manager and Junior Executive computer-based examination is scheduled for 21 October and 26 October 2026, depending on the post. The official recruitment portal published an admit card notice on 14 October 2026.
Candidates who applied should follow these steps:
- Visit the official AAI recruitment dashboard.
- Locate Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT.
- Open the admit card or examination-related link.
- Enter the requested registration details.
- Download the admit card.
- Verify the examination date, shift, reporting time and centre.
- Read the instructions concerning identification and permitted items.
Candidates should carry the documents specified in the admit card instructions. They should not rely on the general examination dates alone because the individual admit card determines the candidate’s assigned schedule.
For any correction or clarification, use the contact details or instructions published by AAI.
How to Apply Online for Airport Authority of India Recruitment 2026?
The application process depends on the specific recruitment advertisement. The application window for the 389-post Manager and Junior Executive recruitment has closed, but the following steps explain the usual process for other AAI online recruitment notices.
Step 1: Visit the official website
Open the Airports Authority of India official website.
Step 2: Open the recruitment section
Visit the AAI Recruitment Dashboard and identify the advertisement relevant to your qualifications.
Step 3: Read the notification carefully
Check the post name, advertisement number, vacancy details, educational qualifications, age limit, experience requirements, salary and application deadline.
Step 4: Confirm the application status
Check whether the registration window is open. An advertisement may remain visible on the recruitment dashboard even after applications have closed.
Step 5: Register online
If the recruitment is open, follow the official registration procedure and enter your personal and contact details accurately.
Step 6: Complete the application form
Provide the required educational and professional details. Select the appropriate post and discipline as instructed.
Step 7: Upload documents
Upload the photograph, signature, certificates and other documents in the format and size specified by the portal.
Step 8: Pay the application fee, if required
Check the notification for the applicable fee, exemptions and payment instructions. Use only the authorised payment method.
Step 9: Submit and save the acknowledgement
Review all information before submitting the application. Download the acknowledgement and retain the application number and payment receipt for future reference.
For offline, walk-in or contractual recruitments, candidates must follow the specific procedure described in the advertisement instead of assuming that online registration is available.
Important Documents for AAI Recruitment 2026
Candidates should prepare the documents relevant to their chosen post.
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Educational certificates | Verification of the required qualification |
| Academic mark sheets | Confirmation of academic results |
| Date-of-birth proof | Verification of age |
| Identity proof | Candidate identification |
| Recent photograph | Application and verification |
| Signature | Application authentication |
| Experience certificates | Proof of required work experience |
| Category certificate | Claiming eligible reservation or relaxation |
| Professional registration or certification | Verification of professional requirements |
| GATE or other examination details | Only where specified in the advertisement |
| Apprenticeship registration details | Where required for apprenticeship recruitment |
| Application acknowledgement | Proof of application submission |
The actual document list depends on the notification. Candidates should follow the official instructions and ensure that all certificates are valid and consistent with the details entered in the application.
Important Links for Airport Authority of India Recruitment 2026
Use the following official links to check recruitment notifications, examination updates and current vacancies.
| Important link | Purpose |
|---|---|
| AAI Official Website | Official organisational information and announcements |
| AAI Recruitment Dashboard | Recruitment notices, application links and current status |
| AAI Recruitment Releases | Downloadable recruitment advertisements and related notices |
| AAI Recruitment Press Notes | Examination schedules, admit card announcements and other updates |
| AAI Manager and Junior Executive Recruitment Information | Locate Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT |
| Ministry of Civil Aviation | Official information about India’s civil aviation sector |
The links above are provided for official information. Candidates should check the latest advertisement and verify whether applications are open before attempting to register.
Preparation Tips for AAI Recruitment 2026
Candidates preparing for future AAI vacancies should begin by identifying the post that matches their qualifications and experience.
First, read the official notification thoroughly. Understanding the eligibility criteria and selection procedure will help you determine whether you qualify and what preparation is required.
Second, revise the technical or professional subjects relevant to your chosen discipline. Engineering candidates should focus on the subjects prescribed for their examination, while specialist candidates should review the knowledge required for their role.
Third, practise relevant aptitude, reasoning or general awareness questions if these subjects form part of the examination. Mock tests can help improve speed and accuracy.
Fourth, keep your documents organised. Educational certificates, experience records, identity proof and other required paperwork should be ready before the next application window.
Finally, monitor the official AAI recruitment dashboard for admit cards, examination instructions, results, corrigenda and future vacancies.
FAQ
What is Airport Authority of India Recruitment 2026?
AAI Recruitment 2026 refers to recruitment activities conducted by the Airports Authority of India during 2026. These include direct recruitment for Manager and Junior Executive positions, apprenticeship opportunities and specialised contractual appointments.
How many vacancies are available in AAI Recruitment 2026?
AAI announced 389 vacancies under Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT for Manager and Junior Executive posts. Other recruitment advertisements have separate vacancy counts.
What is the last date to apply for AAI Manager and Junior Executive Recruitment 2026?
The last date to apply for the major 389-post recruitment drive was 7 September 2026. The application window is closed.
What are the AAI Recruitment 2026 exam dates?
The computer-based examination for the Manager and Junior Executive recruitment is scheduled for 21 October and 26 October 2026, depending on the post. Candidates should check their admit cards for the assigned date and examination centre.
Has the AAI Recruitment 2026 admit card been released?
AAI published an admit card notice on 14 October 2026. Candidates who applied should visit the official recruitment portal and follow the instructions to access their hall tickets.
What is the educational qualification for AAI Recruitment 2026?
The qualification depends on the post. Manager and Junior Executive positions may require relevant degrees or professional qualifications, while apprenticeship positions may require a graduate, diploma or ITI qualification. The individual advertisement contains the exact criteria.
What is the age limit for AAI Recruitment 2026?
There is no universal age limit for every AAI position. The permitted age range and applicable relaxation rules are specified in the relevant recruitment notification.
What salary is offered under AAI Recruitment 2026?
Salary depends on the position and employment category. Regular executive posts follow the applicable pay structure, while apprentices receive the specified stipend and consultants receive remuneration according to their contract.
What is the selection process for AAI jobs?
The process may include a computer-based test, interview, merit-based shortlisting, document verification or additional assessments, depending on the post.
How can I download the AAI Recruitment 2026 notification PDF?
Visit the official AAI recruitment dashboard, find the relevant advertisement and open its notification or download link. Check the advertisement number before relying on the document.
Are AAI apprenticeship positions permanent jobs?
No. Apprenticeship positions are training engagements governed by the applicable rules and notification. Completing an apprenticeship does not automatically guarantee permanent employment.
Where can I check upcoming AAI vacancies?
Visit the official AAI recruitment dashboard regularly. New recruitment advertisements, consultant engagements, apprenticeship notices and other updates may be published throughout the year.
Conclusion
Airport Authority of India Recruitment 2026 provides opportunities for candidates interested in aviation, engineering, airport operations, management, professional consultancy and apprenticeship training.
The major Manager and Junior Executive recruitment drive announced 389 vacancies under Advertisement No. 12/2026/CHQ/DR-CBT. Applications closed on 7 September 2026, and the computer-based examination is scheduled for 21 October and 26 October 2026, depending on the post. Candidates who applied should check the official AAI website for their admit card and examination instructions.
Other recruitment notices for consultants, apprentices and specialist professionals may have different eligibility conditions and application deadlines. Candidates should therefore review each advertisement separately and verify whether the application window is open.
For accurate information about AAI Recruitment 2026, rely on the official recruitment dashboard and original notifications. Checking the eligibility criteria, vacancy details, salary, selection process and deadlines carefully will help applicants make informed decisions and avoid misleading recruitment information.
