Joining the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) as a commissioned officer is a dream for thousands of young Pakistanis who want to serve their country with pride, honor, and professionalism. Every year, PAF announces multiple opportunities for talented and passionate candidates through Permanent Commission (PC) and Short Service Commission (SSC/SPSSC). The 2026 recruitment cycle has officially opened, offering an excellent chance for eligible candidates to apply and build a prestigious career in one of the most respected defense forces in Pakistan.
If you are planning to apply through the official website Pakistan Air Force recruitment portal at www.joinpaf.gov.pk, this detailed guide will help you understand everything — from eligibility criteria and available courses to the selection procedure, benefits, and future career prospects.
Basic Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Date Posted / Updated | 16 February, 2026 |
| Category / Sector | Government |
| Newspaper | Nawaiwaqt Jobs |
| Education / Qualification | Inter-Bachelor |
| Area / Town | Islamabad Other Area Jobs |
| Vacancy Location | Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan |
| Organization | Pakistan Air Force PAF |
| Job Industry | Air Force Jobs |
| Job Type | Full Time |
| Expected Last Date | 01 March, 2026 |
Online Registration Dates for PAF 2026
The online registration for joining PAF as a commissioned officer is open from 16 February to 01 March 2026. Candidates must apply within this period through the official website to be considered for the recruitment process. Late applications are not entertained, so it is important to complete your registration on time.
Online registration is the first and most important step in the selection process. Applicants should carefully fill in their academic and personal details to avoid disqualification due to incorrect information.
Permanent Commission (PC) Courses in Pakistan Air Force
Permanent Commission is ideal for candidates who want a long-term professional career in the Air Force. After successful training and degree completion, selected candidates are granted a permanent commission in PAF.
General Duty Pilot (GD-P) – 161 Course
The General Duty Pilot (GD-P) branch is one of the most prestigious and competitive courses offered by PAF. It is designed for candidates who aspire to become fighter pilots and serve in aviation operations.
Age Limit: 16 to 22 years (as of 15 October 2026)
Nationality: Male citizens of Pakistan
Marital Status: Unmarried
Minimum Height: 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm)
Vision Requirement: 6/6 in each eye (without glasses)
Qualification Requirements:
Candidates must have at least 65% aggregate marks in any of the following:
- F.Sc (Pre-Engineering / Pre-Medical / Computer Science)
- A-Level with Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science,, or Biology
- F.Sc with Physics and any two subject,s such as Maths, Statistics, Computer Science, or Biology
- DAE in Avionics, Electrical, Mechanical, Electronics, Telecommunication, Software, or related fields
The training period for GD-P is approximately 4 years, including academic and flying training programs.
Aeronautical Engineering Course – 107
This course is suitable for students interested in aerospace technology and aircraft engineering.
Age Limit: 16 to 22 years
Minimum Qualification:
- F.Sc (Pre-Engineering) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics
- A-Level (equivalent to Pre-Engineering)
- DAE in relevant engineering fields with at least 65% marks
Selected candidates are awarded a BE degree in Aerospace or Avionics Engineering after successful completion of training.
Air Defence Course – 117
The Air Defence branch plays a vital role in national security by protecting airspace using advanced defense systems.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Age: 16 to 22 years
- Nationality: Male Pakistani citizen
- Minimum Height: 163 cm
- Qualification: Minimum 65% marks in F.Sc, A-Level, or DAE (relevant fields)
After completion of training, candidates are awarded a BS degree in Aviation Management along with a permanent commission.
Admin & Special Duties Course – 36
This branch focuses on administrative operations, management tasks, and strategic planning within the Air Force.
Requirements:
- Age: 16 to 22 years
- Minimum 65% marks in F.Sc, A-Level, or DAE
- Minimum height: 5 feet 4 inches
- Unmarried male Pakistani citizens only
The training duration is 4 years and includes professional academic development.
Logistics Course – 19
The Logistics branch is responsible for supply chain management, operational support, and technical logistics of the Air Force.
Candidates must meet the same educational and physical criteria as other PC branches and complete a 4-year training program leading to a BS degree in Aviation Management.
Short Service Commission (SSC/SPSSC) Branches 2026
Short Service Commission is designed for graduates and postgraduates who want to join PAF as Flying Officers in specialized fields.
Engineering Branch – 137
Age Limit: 20 to 26 years
Qualification: BE in Chemical Engineering or equivalent (Preference for MS degree holders)
Minimum Requirement: 60% marks or 2.5/4 CGPA from HEC/PEC recognized universities
Training Period: 24 weeks
Education Branch – 137
PAF offers opportunities in multiple academic disciplines including:
- Mathematics (MS/MPhil)
- Psychology (MS/MPhil)
- Education (MS/MPhil)
- English (Literature or Linguistics)
- Statistics (MS/MPhil)
Age Limit: 20 to 29 years
Minimum CGPA: 2.7/4 or 65% marks
Selected candidates are appointed as Flying Officers after training.
Education Branch (Islamiat)
Candidates with MS/MPhil in Islamiat or equivalent qualifications can apply. Preference is given to candidates with PhD or Dars-e-Nizami certification.
MET Branch (Meteorology)
Applicants with degrees in Physics, Mathematics, Environmental Science, or Meteorology are eligible.
Age Limit: 20 to 26 years
Qualification: BS, BSc, MSc, or MS in relevant science subjects with a minimum 65% marks.
Accounts Branch – 137
Candidates with the following qualifications can apply:
- BBA (Finance)
- B.Com (4 years)
- BS Accounting / Finance / Commerce
- Equivalent 16 years of education in Finance or Accounting
Minimum 65% marks or 2.7 CGPA is required for eligibility.
Selection Procedure for Joining PAF
The selection process of PAF is transparent, merit-based, and highly competitive. Candidates must pass multiple stages to secure final selection.
Step 1: Online Registration
Candidates must apply through the official website during the registration period.
Step 2: Intelligence and Academic Test
After registration, applicants appear in computerized tests including:
- Intelligence Test
- Academic Test (English, Physics, Mathematics,, depending on qualification background)
Step 3: Initial Medical Examination & Interview
Initial screening, physical fitness test, and interview are conducted at PAF Information & Selection Centres.
Step 4: Physical Fitness Test
Candidates must meet the following standards:
- 1 Mile Running: 8–9 minutes
- Push-ups: Minimum required repetitions
- Sit-ups and Chin-ups within given time limits
Step 5: ISSB Test
Shortlisted candidates are called for Inter Services Selection Board (ISSB) tests in centers like Kohat, Gujranwala, Malir, or Quetta.
Step 6: Final Medical & Merit Selection
Final medical examination is conducted at CMB Lahore, followed by final merit-based selection by Air Headquarters.
Required Documents for Registration
Applicants must have:
- NADRA Smart Card
- Original educational certificates
- Mark sheets
- Passport-size attested photographs
- Equivalence certificate (for A-Level candidates)
Providing false or incomplete information may lead to permanent disqualification.
Pakistan Air Force 2026 Advertisement
Benefits of Joining Pakistan Air Force
A career in PAF offers numerous professional and personal benefits that make it one of the most attractive career options in Pakistan.
Highly Competitive Salary Package
PAF officers receive a handsome salary along with multiple allowances and annual increments based on performance and rank.
Free Medical Facilities
Officers and their families receive free medical treatment at military hospitals and medical facilities across the country.
Free Accommodation & Travel Benefits
Selected officers get free accommodation and up to 50% concession on air and train travel, making life financially stable and secure.
Internationally Recognized Training & Degrees
PAF provides globally recognized professional training programs, including aerospace and aviation degrees, enhancing long-term career prospects.
Housing and Career Growth
Officers become eligible for membership in Air Force Officer Housing Schemes (AFOHS) and enjoy structured promotions, leadership development, and international exposure.
Ineligibility Conditions Candidates Must Know
Candidates will be considered ineligible if they:
- Are rejected multiple times by ISSB or Armed Forces selection boards
- Are dismissed from any government service
- Provide forged academic documents
- Are declared permanently medically unfit
- Have a criminal conviction in a court of law
- Have withdrawn from any armed forces academy on disciplinary grounds
Maintaining honesty and transparency during the application process is essential.
Training and Future Career Path in PAF
After final selection, GD-P candidates may undergo BE (Aerospace/Avionics) programs at specialized training institutions based on merit. Other candidates complete BS Aviation Management or professional training courses depending on their branch.
Upon successful completion of training, cadets are granted permanent commission and assigned to operational units, training wings, or technical departments across Pakistan and sometimes abroad.
PAF Information & Selection Centres in Pakistan
Candidates can visit their nearest PAF Information & Selection Centre for guidance and testing. Major centers are located in cities including Lahore, Karachi, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Multan, Hyderabad, Peshawar, Quetta, Sukkur, Gilgit, and Abbottabad.
Final Thoughts
Joining the Pakistan Air Force as a commissioned officer in 2026 is a golden opportunity for young, passionate, and patriotic individuals who want to build a disciplined and respected career. With world-class training, attractive salary packages, international exposure, and the honor of serving the nation, PAF remains one of the top career choices for students after intermediate and graduation.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and have the determination to serve your country, do not miss the registration deadline. Apply through the official portal, prepare well for the selection tests, and take the first step toward a prestigious and rewarding future in the Pakistan Air Force.
FAQs About Pakistan Air Force Jobs 2026
What is the last date to apply for Join PAF 2026?
The last date for online registration to join the Pakistan Air Force as a commissioned officer is 01 March 2026. Candidates must apply online through the official website within the registration period.
What is the minimum qualification required to join PAF?
Candidates must have at least 65% marks in F.Sc (Pre-Engineering, Pre-Medical, or Computer Science), A-Level with relevant subjects, or DAE in approved technical fields to apply for most Permanent Commission courses.
What is the age limit for joining PAF as a commissioned officer?
For Permanent Commission courses, the age limit is 16 to 22 years, while for Short Service Commission branches, the age limit generally ranges from 20 to 29 years depending on the specific branch.
How can I apply for PAF jobs online in 2026?
Applicants can apply online by visiting the official registration portal at www.joinpaf.gov.pk, filling out the application form, and selecting their desired branch before the deadline.
What is the selection process for Pakistan Air Force recruitment?
The selection process includes online registration, intelligence and academic tests, initial medical and interview, physical test, ISSB assessment, and final medical examination followed by merit-based final selection.