How to Join Pakistan Air Force (GDP, Aeronautical Engineer, Airman)

How to Join Pakistan Air Force

How to Join Pakistan Air Force (GDP, Aeronautical Engineer, Airman): 2025 Career Guide

How to Join Pakistan Air Force

Introduction

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF) is one of the most prestigious and elite military forces in the country. Whether you dream of becoming a General Duty Pilot (GDP), a qualified Aeronautical Engineer, or a committed Airman, the PAF offers a highly rewarding and disciplined career path. This guide explains how to join Pakistan Air Force (GDP, Aeronautical Engineer, Airman) in 2025.


Why Join the Pakistan Air Force?

  • Serve the Nation with Honor

  • Job Security and Excellent Salary

  • Advanced Training and Education

  • Medical, Housing, and Travel Benefits

  • Pride in Wearing the Uniform of a National Hero


Different Career Paths in PAF

Category Example Roles
Commissioned Officers GDP, Aeronautical Engineer, Admin
Non-Commissioned Officers Technicians, Clerk, Aero Support
Civilians Teachers, Admin, IT

General Eligibility Criteria for PAF

  • Nationality: Must be a Pakistani citizen

  • Marital Status: Mostly unmarried (varies by post)

  • Age: Varies by category (16.5–22 for GDP, 18–25 for Airmen)

  • Height: Min 5’4” for males; 4’10” for females (varies by role)

  • Vision: 6/6 (for GDP), relaxed for other branches

  • Education: From Matric to FSc to Bachelor’s, depending on role


How to Join PAF as a General Duty Pilot (GDP)

Eligibility for GDP

  • Gender: Both males and females

  • Age: 16.5 to 22 years

  • Education: FSc (Pre-Eng/Pre-Med/ICS) with 60%+ marks

  • Height: 5’4″ (male), 5’0″ (female)

Selection Procedure for GDP

  1. Online Registration at joinpaf.gov.pk

  2. Computerized Test (English, Physics, Intelligence)

  3. Medical Examination at PAF center

  4. Interview by AHQ Team

  5. ISSB (Inter-Services Selection Board)

  6. Final Medical and Merit List

Training takes place at PAF Academy Risalpur.


How to Join PAF as an Aeronautical Engineer

Education and Fields Required

  • Degree Required: FSC Pre-Engineering or O/A Levels with equivalence

  • Disciplines: Aerospace, Avionics, Mechanical, Electrical, Mechatronics

Steps in Selection Process

  1. Online registration and eligibility check

  2. Academic and IQ test

  3. Initial Medical Examination

  4. Interview by PAF selection board

  5. Final Selection by Air Headquarters

Selected candidates train at the College of Aeronautical Engineering (CAE), Risalpur under NUST.


How to Join PAF as an Airman

Education Requirements

  • Matric Science with 60%+ for Aero Trade

  • Intermediate for clerical and support roles

  • Age: 16 to 22 years

Physical and Test Requirements

  • Running: 1.6 km in 8–10 minutes

  • Push-ups, sit-ups, chin-ups

  • Written test in Physics, Math, English

Training is held at PAF Korangi Creek, Karachi and other technical schools.


Online Registration Process

  • Visit www.joinpaf.gov.pk

  • Fill out form, choose your category

  • Print registration slip for test date

  • Appear at your nearest PAF Information & Selection Centre (ISRC)


PAF Selection Centers and Locations

Available in all major cities:

  • Rawalpindi

  • Lahore

  • Karachi

  • Quetta

  • Peshawar

  • Multan

  • Hyderabad

  • Sargodha

  • Faisalabad

  • Sukkur

  • Abbottabad


Training and Academies in PAF

Academy Training For
PAF Academy Risalpur GDP and Officers
CAE (NUST) Risalpur Engineers
Korangi Creek Tech School Airmen, Aero Trades

Training includes physical conditioning, leadership, academics, and simulation labs.


Life in Pakistan Air Force

  • Discipline and Duty First

  • Structured routines and operations

  • Involvement in national security missions

  • Respect from society and nation

  • Opportunities for foreign assignments and peacekeeping


Salary and Perks of PAF Personnel

Category Starting Salary Perks
GDP Officer PKR 70,000+ Residence, fuel, family healthcare
Aeronautical Engineer PKR 60,000+ Mess, accommodation, technical tools
Airman PKR 35,000–45,000 Uniform, mess, travel, schooling

Career Growth and Promotion in PAF

  • Airman → Chief Technician → Warrant Officer

  • Pilot Officer → Flying Officer → Squadron Leader → Air Commodore → Air Chief Marshal

  • Promotions based on performance, training, and years of service


Tips to Successfully Join PAF

  1. Start Physical Training Early

  2. Stay Updated with Current Affairs and Science

  3. Prepare with Past Papers and Mock Tests

  4. Stay Calm in Interviews

  5. Be Honest and Confident in Medical and Psych Tests


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Entering incorrect info in online form

  • Ignoring physical fitness training

  • Not preparing for the IQ and English test

  • Overconfidence in interviews


FAQs about How to Join Pakistan Air Force

1. Can females apply for GDP or Engineering in PAF?

Yes, PAF recruits women for both GDP and engineering roles.

2. Is Matric enough to join PAF?

Yes, for Airman positions like Aero Support, Firefighter, and Cook.

3. What is the age limit for GDP?

16.5 to 22 years for most commissioned officer entries.

4. How many times can I apply?

You can apply as long as you meet the criteria and age limits.

5. Is vision 6/6 necessary?

Yes, especially for pilots. Engineering and Airmen roles may allow minor issues.

6. What if I fail the medical test?

Unfortunately, failing medical is a disqualification.


Conclusion

Joining the Pakistan Air Force as a GDP pilot, Aeronautical Engineer, or Airman is a life-changing opportunity. It demands physical fitness, mental sharpness, and a heart that beats for the nation. If you meet the criteria and have the passion to soar, take your first step today—the sky isn’t the limit, it’s just the beginning.