AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 36 Graduate & Diploma Posts

AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Overview & Key Opportunities

The Airports Authority of India (AAI), Regional Headquarters, Western Region, Mumbai, has officially announced the recruitment of Graduate and Diploma Apprentices for the training year 2026-27. This recruitment drive, advertised under Advertisement No. 03/08/2026/APPRENTICE (Graduate/Diploma)/WR, is a golden opportunity for degree and diploma holders in various engineering and non-engineering disciplines to gain hands-on experience in the aviation sector. The apprenticeship program, governed by the Apprentices Act, 1961/2014/2025, offers a one-year training period at various airports under the Western Region, covering Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and the Union Territory of Diu.

This recruitment is particularly significant for candidates who are domiciles of the mentioned states/UT and are seeking a career in the aviation infrastructure domain. With a total of 36 vacancies distributed across eight disciplines, the selection process is based on merit in the qualifying examination, followed by an interview and document verification. Selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend of ₹15,000 for Graduate Apprentices and ₹12,000 for Diploma Apprentices, along with valuable industry exposure. The application process is entirely online through the NATS portal, starting from 03 August 2026 and closing on 30 September 2026. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026, covering all essential details such as eligibility, vacancies, stipend, selection process, and step-by-step application instructions.

AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Notification Highlights

The AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 notification brings several key highlights that every aspiring candidate should know. Here is a quick summary of the most important aspects:

• Total Vacancies: 36 posts (Graduate and Diploma Apprentices)
• Training Duration: 1 Year
• Stipend: ₹15,000 per month for Graduate Apprentices, ₹12,000 per month for Diploma Apprentices
• Application Mode: Online through NATS Portal (nats.education.gov.in)
• Application Fee: No application fee
• Eligible States/UT: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and UT of Diu
• Job Location: AAI Airports under Western Region
• Important Dates: Application start – 03 August 2026; Last date – 30 September 2026
• Age Limit: 18 to 26 years as on 31 July 2026 (with relaxations)
• Selection Process: Merit-based shortlisting, interview, and document verification

These highlights provide a snapshot of the recruitment, but candidates are advised to read the full notification for detailed eligibility criteria and conditions.

About Airports Authority of India (AAI) & AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. It is responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining, and managing civil aviation infrastructure in India. AAI operates 137 airports across the country, including international, domestic, and customs airports, providing air traffic management services and ensuring safe and efficient air travel. The Western Region of AAI, headquartered in Mumbai, oversees airports in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and the UT of Diu, including major hubs like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Indore, and Goa.

Working as an apprentice at AAI offers a unique opportunity to learn from industry experts, understand airport operations, and develop skills in a dynamic environment. The apprenticeship program is designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, making it an ideal launchpad for a career in aviation or related sectors. While apprenticeship does not guarantee regular employment, the experience and certification from AAI are highly valued in the job market.

AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Vacancy Details & Post Breakdown

The AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 offers a total of 36 vacancies across various disciplines. The posts are divided into Graduate Apprentice and Diploma Apprentice categories, each with specific educational qualifications. The table below provides a detailed breakdown of the vacancies:

It is important to note that the number of vacancies is tentative and may be revised based on organizational requirements. Candidates are advised to check the official notification for any updates.

Category-Wise Vacancy Reservation for AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026

The official notification does not provide a detailed category-wise breakdown of vacancies. However, as per government norms, reservations for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, and PwD categories are applicable. Candidates belonging to these categories are advised to refer to the official notification for specific reservation details. The selection will be based on merit, and relaxation in age and qualifying marks is provided as per rules.

Educational Qualification & Eligibility Criteria for AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026

The educational qualifications for AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 vary according to the discipline. Candidates must possess a full-time regular degree or diploma from a recognized institution with the required percentage of marks. Below are the detailed qualification requirements:

Graduate Apprentice Qualifications

• Finance: Degree in Commerce (B.Com) or Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration (BBA).
• Electrical/Civil: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering/Technology in Electrical or Civil Engineering.
• Electronics & Telecommunication: Bachelor's Degree in Engineering/Technology in Electronics/Telecommunication.
• IT/Computer Science: Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science or Information Technology.
• Mechanical: Degree in Engineering/Technology in Mechanical or Automobile Engineering.
• HR: Degree in any stream with knowledge of computer and administrative work.

Diploma Apprentice Qualifications

• Electrical/Civil: Diploma in Electrical or Civil Engineering.
• Mechanical: Diploma in Engineering/Technology in Mechanical or Automobile Engineering.

Additionally, candidates must have secured a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate (45% for SC/ST). The degree/diploma must have been completed on or after 01 April 2022, and candidates should not have more than five years of gap since passing the qualifying examination. Final year students awaiting results are also eligible, provided they meet the qualification at the time of joining.

Age Limit & Category Relaxations

The age limit for AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is calculated as on 31 July 2026. Candidates must be between 18 and 26 years of age. However, age relaxation is applicable for reserved categories as per government norms:

It is essential for candidates to ensure they meet the age criteria and have the necessary certificates for relaxation claims.

Salary Details, Pay Scale & Perks

Selected apprentices under AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 will receive a monthly stipend during the one-year training period. The stipend is shared between the establishment and the government under the Board of Apprenticeship Training (BOAT) scheme. The detailed stipend structure is as follows:

In addition to the stipend, apprentices will gain valuable industry experience and a certificate upon completion, which enhances their employability. However, this is not a regular employment opportunity, and no job guarantee is provided.

AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 Selection Process & Examination Phases

The selection process for AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is purely merit-based. There is no written examination. The selection stages are as follows:

1. Shortlisting: Candidates will be shortlisted based on the percentage of marks obtained in the qualifying examination.
2. Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be called for an interview and verification of certificates/testimonials. The interview will be conducted at the respective AAI airport locations or via video conferencing, as decided by the authorities.
3. Medical Fitness: Selected candidates must submit a Certificate of Medical Fitness from a Gazetted Government Medical Officer or Medical Officer of a Government Undertaking at the time of joining.
4. Police Verification: Candidates must also provide a police verification certificate from their local area of residence.

All communication regarding the interview will be sent to the candidate's registered email ID. Candidates are advised to regularly check their email and the NATS portal for updates.

Application Fee Details

There is no application fee for AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026. Candidates can apply online through the NATS portal without any payment. This is a great opportunity for candidates from all categories, as the application process is completely free of cost.

Important Dates & Schedule

Candidates must adhere to the following important dates to ensure their application is submitted on time:

No applications will be accepted after the last date. Candidates are advised to apply well in advance to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Required Documents Application

While applying for AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026, candidates must have the following documents ready:

• Educational certificates and mark sheets (Degree/Diploma)
• Proof of date of birth (Birth certificate / 10th standard mark sheet)
• Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD) if applicable
• Domicile certificate of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, or UT of Diu
• Recent passport-size photograph and signature in the specified format
• Valid email ID and mobile number
• Aadhaar card or other government-issued ID proof

Ensure all documents are scanned and ready in the required size and format before starting the application process.

How to Apply Online

Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply for AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026:

1. Visit the official NATS portal at nats.education.gov.in.
2. If you are a new user, click on "New User Registration" and complete the registration process by providing your basic details, email ID, and mobile number.
3. After registration, log in to your account and complete your profile by adding your educational qualifications, personal details, and uploading your photograph and signature.
4. Once your profile is complete, search for the AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 advertisement under the "Apprenticeship Opportunities" section.
5. Click on the "Apply" button and select the discipline for which you are eligible.
6. Review all the details in the application form before submitting. Ensure that all information is accurate.
7. Submit the application and take a printout of the completed application form for future reference.

It is crucial to note that applications are accepted only through the NATS portal. No other mode of application will be considered.

Important Instructions & Guidelines Applicants

Candidates must keep the following important instructions in mind while applying for AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026:

• Only candidates who are domiciles of Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, or UT of Diu are eligible to apply.
• Candidates who have already completed apprenticeship or are currently undergoing apprenticeship at the same qualification level are not eligible.
• Candidates with one year or more of training/job experience after attaining the essential qualification are not eligible.
• Apprentices must undergo training at the notified airports/establishments. Requests for change in training location will not be accepted.
• AAI does not guarantee regular employment after completion of apprenticeship.
• Ensure that your photograph and signature are in the prescribed format (JPEG/PNG, size between 20-100 KB).
• Keep your registered email ID and mobile number active for all future communication.

Failure to comply with any of the above conditions may lead to rejection of the application.

Job Location & Posting Details

The apprenticeship training will be conducted at various airports under the Western Region of AAI, which includes airports in Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and the UT of Diu. The exact posting location will be decided by the authorities based on the candidate's preference and availability. Candidates are advised to indicate their preferred airport location during the application process. However, the final decision rests with AAI, and no requests for change will be entertained after the allocation.

Final Summary & Advice for Candidates

The AAI WR Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for degree and diploma holders to kickstart their careers in the aviation sector. With 36 vacancies, a competitive stipend, and the prestige of training under AAI, this program offers immense value. Candidates are advised to read the official notification thoroughly, ensure they meet all eligibility criteria, and apply well before the deadline. Since the selection is merit-based, focus on your academic performance and be prepared for the interview. Keep all documents ready and regularly check the NATS portal for updates. Best of luck with your application!

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