How To Become An Airman In The Indian Air Force (IAF)

Indian Air Force (IAF), one amongst the three defence services in India, has been involved in many wars to safeguard the country's airspace. Every year, the IAF recruit hundreds of candidates for various positions that include Airman. If you are an aspiring candidate and want to fly with glory, the post of an Airman is the best career option.
How To Become An Airman In IAF?

Aspirants can become an Airman by taking the examination conducted by the Central Airmen Selection Board (CSAB). The selection of Airman is based on the positions. There are five positions under Airman. They are:

1. GROUP 'X' Trades (Except Education Instructor): 10+2 pass with mathematics, physics and English or 3 years diploma course in engineering in any stream. The upper age limit is 21 years.
2. GROUP 'X': Education Instructor Trade: BA with English as one subject or BSc with physics/psychology/chemistry/mathematics/IT/computer science/statistics as one of the subjects or BCA with minimum 50% marks. Candidates with BEd are also eligible. One can also apply with their master's degree. The upper age limit is 25 years. However, for candidates who hold a master's degree, the age limit is 28 years.
3. GROUP 'Y' Trades (Except Med Asst and Musician): 10+2 or its equivalent. The upper age limit is 21 years.
4. GROUP 'Y': Med Asst Trade: Pass in 10+2 or its equivalent exam with physics, chemistry, biology and English. The upper age limit is 21 years.
5. GROUP 'Y': Musician Trade: Pass in 10+2 or equivalent and should be proficient in playing at least one of the following musical instruments such as trumpet, bass, violin, saxophone, clarinet, euphonium, jazz-drum, piccolo, bass trombone, keyboard, guitar, sarod, viola, cello and contrabass (string bass).

Physical/Medical Standards

A candidate should be at least 152.5 cm tall and weight should be appropriate to height and age. The minimum expanded chest is 75 cm and minimum range of expansion is 5 cm. One should have a minimum corrected vision of at least 6/12 in each eye.

Airman Selection Process

CSAB selects the candidates based on the written examination and the physical fitness test. The written test varies depending on the group X, Y and Z. There are four sections, namely, English, mathematics, physics and reasoning. After qualifying in the written exam, the candidates will be called for the further rounds such as the physical fitness test.

Central Airmen Selection Board (CSAB)

Central Airmen Selection Board (CSAB), which was formed in 1980, is responsible for selecting the candidates and enrolling Airman and NCs(E) for the IAF. The primary role of the CSAB is to prepare standardised selection procedures, conduct Scheduled Test (ST), prepare All India Select List, conduct recruitment rallies and enrol candidates. CSAB conducts the Airman recruitment at 15 selection centres.

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