AAI NR Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 205 Graduate, Diploma & ITI Posts

AAI NR Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Overview & Key Opportunities

The Airports Authority of India (AAI), Northern Region, has officially announced the AAI NR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 for engaging 205 Graduate, Diploma, and ITI Trade Apprentices under the Apprentices Act, 1961. This is a golden opportunity for engineering graduates, diploma holders, and ITI pass-outs from 12 North Indian states and Union Territories to gain hands-on training at some of the country's busiest airports. The apprenticeship program, lasting one year, offers a monthly stipend of up to ₹15,000 for graduates, making it an attractive entry point into the aviation infrastructure sector.

As a Schedule 'A' Miniratna Category-1 Public Sector Enterprise, AAI is responsible for the management of airports across India, and this apprenticeship is designed to nurture young talent in fields like Civil, Electrical, Electronics, Computer Science, and more. The recruitment process is entirely merit-based, with no written examination, and applications are accepted only through the official NATS and NAPS portals. If you are a domicile of states like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, or Punjab, and have passed your qualifying exam in 2024 or later, this is your chance to build a career with a prestigious government organization.

This comprehensive guide covers every aspect of the AAI NR Apprentice 2026 recruitment, including vacancy breakdown, eligibility criteria, stipend details, selection process, and step-by-step application instructions. Read on to ensure you don't miss any critical detail before the application deadline of 16 September 2026.

AAI NR Apprentice Notification Highlights 2026

The official notification, numbered 01/2026/APPRENTICE/GRADUATE/DIPLOMA/ITI/NR, was released by the Regional Headquarters (Northern Region) of AAI. Here are the key highlights at a glance:

• Organization: Airports Authority of India (AAI), Northern Region
• Advertisement No.: 01/2026/APPRENTICE/GRADUATE/DIPLOMA/ITI/NR
• Total Vacancies: 205 (80 Graduate + 65 Diploma + 60 ITI Trade)
• Training Duration: 1 year (12 months)
• Application Mode: Online only via NATS (Graduate/Diploma) and NAPS (ITI) portals
• Last Date to Apply: 16 September 2026
• Age Limit: 18 to 26 years as on 16.09.2026 (relaxation for reserved categories)
• Stipend: ₹15,000 (Graduate), ₹12,000 (Diploma), ₹9,600 (ITI) per month
• Selection Process: Merit-based on qualifying exam marks, followed by document verification and medical fitness

These highlights provide a snapshot of the recruitment, but each aspect is elaborated in the sections below to help you understand the full scope of the opportunity.

About AAI NR Apprentice & 2026

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is a premier public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. It manages and operates over 100 airports across the country, including international, domestic, and customs airports. The Northern Region (NR) of AAI, headquartered in New Delhi, oversees airports in states such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Jammu & Kashmir, and others. The AAI NR Apprentice program is part of the government's initiative to skill youth through on-the-job training in a real-world aviation environment.

As an apprentice, you will be exposed to the operational, technical, and managerial aspects of airport management, working alongside experienced professionals. The training is designed to enhance your practical skills and employability, though it does not guarantee a regular job with AAI. However, the experience and certification from AAI are highly valued in the aviation and engineering sectors. The AAI NR Apprentice 2026 recruitment is a stepping stone for young aspirants to launch their careers in a dynamic and challenging field.

AAI NR Apprentice Vacancy Details & Post Breakdown 2026

The total 205 vacancies are distributed across three categories: Graduate Apprentices (80), Diploma Apprentices (65), and ITI Trade Apprentices (60). Each category has specific disciplines, as detailed in the table below. Candidates must note that the number of seats is tentative and may be increased or decreased based on organizational requirements.

Within these broad categories, the discipline-wise distribution is as follows:

It is crucial to apply for only one discipline, as multiple applications will lead to rejection.

Category-Wise Vacancy Reservation for AAI NR Apprentice 2026

As per government norms, reservation for SC, ST, OBC, and EWS categories is applicable in the AAI NR Apprentice recruitment. The exact category-wise distribution is not explicitly mentioned in the notification, but it will follow the standard reservation policy of the Government of India. Candidates belonging to reserved categories must upload valid caste certificates during the application process. If sufficient candidates are not available in a reserved category, the seats will be filled from other categories as per rules.

It is advisable to check the official notification for any specific reservation details, but generally, the distribution is as follows (indicative):

• UR: 40%
• OBC: 27%
• EWS: 10%
• SC: 15%
• ST: 7.5%
• PwBD: 4% (horizontal)

These percentages are subject to change as per official guidelines.

Educational Qualification & Eligibility Criteria for AAI NR Apprentice 2026

The educational qualifications vary for each category of apprenticeship. Candidates must ensure they meet the specific requirements before applying.

Graduate Apprentices

Applicants must hold a full-time (regular) 4-year Bachelor's degree in Engineering in the notified streams, such as Civil, Electrical, Electronics, Computer Science, Aeronautical, Architecture, Mechanical, or Automobile. Additionally, BCA and B.Com graduates are eligible for 10 seats. The degree must be recognized by AICTE, Government of India.

Diploma Apprentices

Candidates must have completed a full-time (regular) 3-year Diploma in Engineering in the relevant streams from an AICTE-recognized institution. The disciplines include Civil, Electrical, Electronics, Computer Science, Aeronautical, Architecture, and Mechanical.

ITI Trade Apprentices

Applicants must possess an ITI/NCVT certificate in the notified trades, specifically COPA (Computer Operator and Programming Assistant), Stenography, or Computer Hardware & Networking. The certificate must be from an institution recognized by AICTE.

In addition to the above, candidates must have passed their qualifying examination in 2024 or after 2024. Those who have already completed or are currently undergoing apprenticeship training are not eligible. Also, candidates with one year or more of apprenticeship or job experience after attaining the essential qualification are ineligible as per the Apprentices Act, 1961.

Age Limit & Category Relaxations

The age limit for all candidates is a minimum of 18 years and a maximum of 26 years as on the cutoff date of 16 September 2026. However, relaxation in the upper age limit is applicable for candidates belonging to reserved categories as per Government of India guidelines:

Candidates must ensure they have valid certificates to claim age relaxation. The age is calculated as on 16.09.2026.

Salary Details, Pay Scale & Perks

Apprentices under the AAI NR program receive a monthly stipend as per the Apprentices Act, 1961. The stipend is paid jointly by AAI and the Government of India (through Direct Benefit Transfer). The details are as follows:

In addition to the stipend, apprentices may be entitled to other benefits as per the rules, such as medical facilities and leave as per the Apprenticeship Act. However, this training does not guarantee regular employment with AAI.

AAI NR Apprentice Selection Process & Examination Phases 2026

The selection process for AAI NR Apprentice 2026 is entirely merit-based, with no written examination. The stages are as follows:

1. Provisional Selection: Candidates are shortlisted based on the percentage of marks obtained in the qualifying examination. CGPA is converted to percentage as per the concerned Board/University norms. In case of a tie, the candidate with a higher age (older) is given preference, followed by the date of passing.
2. Document Verification: Shortlisted candidates are called for document verification at the establishment office. The intimation is sent only to the registered email ID.
3. Interview / Certificate Verification: A formal interview or certificate verification may be conducted to confirm the authenticity of the documents. Candidature remains provisional until this stage is cleared.
4. Medical Fitness: Candidates must submit a Medical Fitness Certificate from a Government Medical Officer or a Medical Officer of a Government Undertaking at the time of joining.
5. Final Selection: After successful document verification and medical fitness clearance, the final selection is made, and an apprentice engagement letter is issued.

It is important to note that being shortlisted for document verification does not guarantee selection. The reservation policy is strictly followed, and if candidates are not available in a reserved category, the seats are filled from other categories.

Application Fee Details

One of the most attractive aspects of the AAI NR Apprentice recruitment is that there is no application fee for any category. Candidates can apply online without any payment. This is a significant advantage, making the process accessible to all eligible candidates. However, candidates must ensure they have a valid email ID and mobile number for registration on the NATS/NAPS portals.

Important Dates & Schedule

All candidates must adhere to the following important dates for the AAI NR Apprentice recruitment:

Candidates are advised to apply well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Required Documents for AAI NR Apprentice Application 2026

While applying online, candidates must keep the following documents ready in the prescribed format (PDF/JPG, size as per portal requirements):

• Passport-size photograph (recent, with white background)
• Signature (in black ink on white paper)
• Educational certificates and mark sheets (Degree/Diploma/ITI)
• Aadhaar card (for e-KYC)
• Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwBD) if applicable
• Domicile certificate (proof of residence in the eligible states/UTs)
• Valid email ID and mobile number
• APAAR ID (for NATS portal)

Ensure all documents are clear and legible, as any discrepancy may lead to rejection.

How to Apply Online

The application process is entirely online, and the steps vary for Graduate/Diploma and ITI candidates. Follow the instructions below carefully.

For Graduate / Diploma Apprentices (NATS 2.0 Portal)

1. Visit the official NATS portal at www.nats.education.gov.in.
2. Click on the Student button and select General Student.
3. Click on Student Registration and fill in the required details, including email, mobile, Aadhaar, and APAAR ID.
4. Verify your mobile and email via OTP, and complete Aadhaar e-KYC.
5. Fill the registration form with personal and educational details, set a password, and submit.
6. Verify your account via the email link, then log in and complete your profile (Basic, Educational, Communication, and Training Preferences).
7. Preview and submit your profile to receive your Student Enrolment ID.
8. Search for the establishment Airports Authority of India – RHQ NR, New Delhi (NDLSWC000002) and click Apply for the desired apprenticeship opportunity.

For ITI Trade Apprentices (NAPS Portal)

1. Visit the official NAPS portal at www.apprenticeshipindia.org.
2. Click on Register and select Candidate.
3. Fill in the Basic, Family, and Contact details, and submit.
4. Activate your account via the email link, then log in with your Registration Number/Email and password.
5. Complete your profile by adding "About Me" and contact details.
6. Search for opportunities using the establishment code E05200700101 (Airports Authority of India – RHQ NR) and click Apply.
7. Track your applications and contracts from the dashboard; if offered a contract, review and sign to accept.

After successful submission, take a printout of the application form for future reference.

Important Instructions & Guidelines for AAI NR Apprentice Applicants

Candidates must adhere to the following important instructions to ensure their application is valid:

• Apply for only one discipline; multiple applications will be rejected.
• Ensure your photograph and signature are in the specified format (JPG/JPEG, size as per portal).
• Keep your email ID and mobile number active for all communications.
• Do not submit false information; any discrepancy will lead to cancellation of candidature.
• Only candidates domiciled in the listed states/UTs are eligible.
• The training period is one year, and no extension is allowed.
• Apprentices are not entitled to any claim for regular employment in AAI.
• Medical fitness is mandatory; candidates must be physically fit for the training.

Job Location & Posting Details

Selected apprentices will be posted at various airports and AAI offices under the Northern Region. The locations include major cities and airports such as Amritsar, Agra, Ayodhya, Bareilly, Dehradun, Gorakhpur, Gwalior, Jammu, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kanpur, Lucknow, Leh, Srinagar, Shimla, Udaipur, Varanasi, and various offices in New Delhi. The complete list is provided in the official notification.

The allocation of the training location is final, and no requests for a change of place will be entertained. Candidates will preferably be posted based on their registration location on the portal, but this is not guaranteed.

Final Summary & Advice for Candidates

The AAI NR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for young engineering graduates, diploma holders, and ITI pass-outs to gain valuable experience in the aviation sector. With 205 vacancies, a decent stipend, and no application fee, the competition is expected to be high. Since the selection is purely merit-based, candidates with higher percentages in their qualifying exams will have an edge.

Here are some expert tips to maximize your chances:

• Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria before applying.
• Apply early to avoid last-minute portal glitches.
• Double-check all details in your application before final submission.
• Keep all documents ready for verification.
• Stay updated with official communications via email.

We wish all candidates the very best for their application and selection. This apprenticeship could be the launchpad for a rewarding career in airport management and engineering.

Senior Government Jobs Editor ✓

Career Content Specialist, SEO Strategist, and Fact-Checking Writer for Sarkari Job Finders

This article has been manually researched, cross-referenced with the official notification, and structured to provide verified, candidate-centric information.

Fact-Checked & Verified