The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is on a major hiring drive in 2026. The latest AAI Recruitment 2026 notification is out. This brings good news for candidates aiming for a stable, respectable career at India’s airports. Whether you are a fresher looking for an apprenticeship or an engineering graduate looking for a Junior Executive post through GATE, there is something for almost everyone this cycle.
In this blog, we break down everything you need to know about this recruitment cycle. By the end of the blog, you will know about the AAI recruitment eligibility, vacancy and application process.
AAI Full Form: A Quick Intro
The AAI full form is Airports Authority of India. AAI is a Miniratna Category-1 Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. It is responsible for managing civil aviation infrastructure, air traffic services and airport operations across the country. A job with AAI is considered one of the most stable government sector careers in India.
Latest Notification: What’s New?
The most recent AAI recruitment 2026 notification is for the engagement of Graduate, Diploma and ITI Apprentices under the Apprentices Act, 1961. Let us see some of the key highlights given below:
| Details | Information |
| Notification Name | Engagement of Apprentices- Northern Region |
| Total Posts | 95 (apprentice) |
| Trades | Graduate, Diploma and ITI |
| Application Mode | Online Only |
| Application Start | Ongoing |
| Last Date to Apply | 28th July 2026 |
| Age Limit | 18 to 26 years (as on 28th July 2026) |
| Selection Process | Shortlisting, document verification and medical examination |
This is one of the many notifications currently active this year at AAI. The organisation regularly rolls out region-wise advertisements (Northern, Southern, Eastern, Western and North Eastern Region). Candidates are advised to keep checking the AAI careers page regularly.
Overview of Ongoing and Recent AAI Recruitment Drives in 2026
Apart from the fresh apprentice notification, there are other recruitment drives in progress. Some of the recruitments have also concluded. Let us see the table given below:
| Post/Category | Total Posts | Status |
| Junior Executives (through GATE) | 976 | In progress |
| Junior Executives (Air Traffic Control) | 309 | In progress |
| Apprentices (Northern Region) | 133 | Recently closed |
| Apprentices (Northern Region, new) | 95 | Applications open till 28th July 2026 |
| Junior Assistants (North Eastern Region) | 14 | In progress |
| Senior/Junior Assistants (Southern Region) | 119 | In progress |
Note: Vacancy numbers and statuses are updated frequently on the official AAI recruitment.
AAI Junior Executives Total Post Through GATE
AAI announced direct recruitment of Junior Executives through GATE 2023, GATE 2024 and GATE 2025 scores. A total of 976 posts were notified across streams like Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology. Engineering graduates no longer have to write an exam since GATE scores are used directly for shortlisting. Shortlisted candidates are followed by document verification and other selection stages.
AAI JE ATC Recruitment 2026
For candidates interested in Air Traffic Control, the AAI JE ATC recruitment 2026 is an important opportunity. As per the official notification, 309 Junior Executive vacancies have been announced. The selection process for JE ATC typically includes a CBT, followed by further stages such as document verification and medical examination. Candidates should also hold a relevant Bachelor’s degree.
AAI Apprentice Recruitment 2026
The AAI Apprentice Recruitment 2026 drive is spread across multiple regions. It is one of the best ways for fresh graduates, diploma holders and ITI candidates to gain hands-on experience at AAI. As covered above, the latest notification offers 95 apprentice posts in the Northern Region. The application process is open until 28th July 2026. Similar apprentice notifications have also been released for the Eastern and North Eastern Regions earlier this year.
Apprenticeship under AAI generally lasts one year. It is a great opportunity for candidates aiming to build relevant work experience before applying for regular AAI posts.
AAI Junior Assistant Recruitment 2026
The AAI Junior Assistant Recruitment 2026 covers posts such as Junior Assistant (Fire Service), Junior Assistant (Office) and related roles across AAI’s regional cadres. Recent notifications cover Junior Assistant vacancies in the North Eastern Region. Candidates are required to qualify 10th or 12th exam with a 3-year diploma in relevant stream. The AAI age limit for Junior Assistant is between 18 and 30 years (relaxable for reserved categories as per government norms). For Junior Assistant (Fire Service) posts, a valid driving licence is a requirement.
Eligibility Criteria at a Glance
| Post | Typical Educational Qualification | Typical Age Limit |
| Junior Executive (through GATE) | Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/relevant discipline | Up to 27-30 years |
| Junior Executive (ATC) | BSc (Physics & Maths) or relevant Engineering Degree | Up to 27 years |
| Apprentice (Graduate/diploma/ITI) | Degree/diploma/ITI in relevant discipline | 18- 26 years |
| Junior Assistant | 10th+diploma or 12th pass | 18- 30 years |
Note: Age relaxation and exact eligibility may vary by region.
How to Apply Online for Upcoming AAI Job Vacancies in 2026?
There are some steps to follow to apply for AAI job vacancies in 2026. Follow these steps given below:
- Go to the official AAI website and go to the Careers or Recruitment section.
- Find the relevant advertisement number for the post you wish to apply for.
- Click on the registration or “Apply Online” link for that notification.
- Register using a valid email ID and mobile number to generate your login credentials.
- Log in and fill out application form with personal, academic and category details
- Upload the required documents, including photograph, signature and relevant certificates.
- Pay the application fee online, if applicable to your category.
- Review all details carefully, submit the form and download a copy for reference.
AAI Recruitment Selection Process
The exact stages vary by post. Most recruitment drives at AAI follow a structure. Let us see the selection process given below:
- Computer Based Test (CBT) or shortlisting based on GATE score
- Document Verification
- Medical Examination/Physical Measurement Test (for posts like Fire Service)
- Driving Test (for Junior Assistant Fire Service Roles)
- Final merit list and offer of appointment
The AAI Recruitment 2026 offers a wide range of opportunities for candidates at different educational levels. Since AAI releases region-wise notifications throughout the year, it’s important to regularly check the official website. Aspirants preparing for AAI and other PSU recruitment exams can also benefit from MADE EASY structured guidance. Check out the upcoming GATE batches and get everything you need in one place.
AAI Recruitment 2026 FAQs
A total of 976 posts have been notified for Junior Executives as per the official notification.
Dear Aspirants, Your preparation for GATE, ESE, PSUs, and AE/JE is now smarter than ever — thanks to the MADE EASY YouTube channel. This is not just a channel, but a complete strategy for success, where you get toppers strategies, PYQ–GTQ discussions, current affairs updates, and important job-related information, all delivered by the country’s best teachers and industry experts. If you also want to stay one step ahead in the race to success, subscribe to MADE EASY on YouTube and stay connected with us on social media. MADE EASY — where preparation happens with confidence.
No, candidates are shortlisted directly based on their GATE score. It is then followed by document verification and other selection stages.
Dear Aspirants, Your preparation for GATE, ESE, PSUs, and AE/JE is now smarter than ever — thanks to the MADE EASY YouTube channel. This is not just a channel, but a complete strategy for success, where you get toppers strategies, PYQ–GTQ discussions, current affairs updates, and important job-related information, all delivered by the country’s best teachers and industry experts. If you also want to stay one step ahead in the race to success, subscribe to MADE EASY on YouTube and stay connected with us on social media. MADE EASY — where preparation happens with confidence.
AAI stands for Airports Authority of India. It is a Miniratna Category 1 PSU under the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
Dear Aspirants, Your preparation for GATE, ESE, PSUs, and AE/JE is now smarter than ever — thanks to the MADE EASY YouTube channel. This is not just a channel, but a complete strategy for success, where you get toppers strategies, PYQ–GTQ discussions, current affairs updates, and important job-related information, all delivered by the country’s best teachers and industry experts. If you also want to stay one step ahead in the race to success, subscribe to MADE EASY on YouTube and stay connected with us on social media. MADE EASY — where preparation happens with confidence.
The general age limit is 18-30 years with relaxations available for reserved categories as per government norms.
Dear Aspirants, Your preparation for GATE, ESE, PSUs, and AE/JE is now smarter than ever — thanks to the MADE EASY YouTube channel. This is not just a channel, but a complete strategy for success, where you get toppers strategies, PYQ–GTQ discussions, current affairs updates, and important job-related information, all delivered by the country’s best teachers and industry experts. If you also want to stay one step ahead in the race to success, subscribe to MADE EASY on YouTube and stay connected with us on social media. MADE EASY — where preparation happens with confidence.
The last date to apply for the current Northern Apprentice Notification is 28th July 2026.
Dear Aspirants, Your preparation for GATE, ESE, PSUs, and AE/JE is now smarter than ever — thanks to the MADE EASY YouTube channel. This is not just a channel, but a complete strategy for success, where you get toppers strategies, PYQ–GTQ discussions, current affairs updates, and important job-related information, all delivered by the country’s best teachers and industry experts. If you also want to stay one step ahead in the race to success, subscribe to MADE EASY on YouTube and stay connected with us on social media. MADE EASY — where preparation happens with confidence.
Dear Aspirants, Your preparation for GATE, ESE, PSUs, and AE/JE is now smarter than ever — thanks to the MADE EASY YouTube channel. This is not just a channel, but a complete strategy for success, where you get toppers strategies, PYQ–GTQ discussions, current affairs updates, and important job-related information, all delivered by the country’s best teachers and industry experts. If you also want to stay one step ahead in the race to success, subscribe to MADE EASY on YouTube and stay connected with us on social media. MADE EASY — where preparation happens with confidence.