The pride of Pakistan, the owner of skies within the Pakistani airspace and beyond, Pakistan Air Force has again and again come out on top and proved that merit is held not only on the ground but in the skies as well. Coming out on top always, regardless of the circumstances. There is no doubt that every ambitious person will be willing to join this powerhouse. Personally, PAF’s dominance can be compared to the Royal Navy’s dominance during the colonial era. And to be frank with those of you that are reading my article, I am half a mind to apply to join this glorious department as well. But of course, my job is to guide you guys, so let's begin!
If you have passed your intermediate, generally, you are eligible to try your luck by directly applying for PC (Permanent Commission) at the PAF. Of course, there are complexities and limitations that I will bring forward as we progress.
1. General Eligibility Criteria
Age:
Your age should be 16 or between 16 and 22 years old. These are strictly followed age restrictions. Those of you who are below and above these ages may simply stop reading this, but those who lie in this category, you are welcome to read forward.
Gender & Marital Status:
Another complexity in your gender, strictly male. And you are supposed to be unmarried.
Height:
The minimum height criterion is 5 feet and 4 inches, which translates to 163 cm. To be fair, I think this is a very lenient requirement, as height is not something someone can control at will.
Vision:
Your vision is to be 6/6, no exceptions, as your job is entirely based on your vision, precision, and accuracy, so yes, those of you who have issues with their vision, sadly, you may stop reading as well.
Nationality:
And of course, your nationality is supposed to be Pakistani.
Units/Branches You Can Apply For
1 General Duty Pilot (GD-P):
This is the main fighting force of the PAF. You will train to fly supersonic jets, helicopters, and many more aircraft. You will be taught meteorology, aerodynamics, and flight training. If dogfights and action are your thing, this branch is what you should aim for. Your education will be at Asghar Khan Academy.
- Education: FSc (Pre-Engineering or Pre-Medical with Additional Mathematics) or A-Level (Physics, Math/Biology) with at least 60% marks.
- Training: 4 years of training at PAF Asghar Khan, Risalpur, which will lead to a BS in Aviation Management.
2 Aeronautical Engineering (CAE):
This will be proper engineering at CAE Risalpur, affiliated with NUST, a great opportunity if you are interested in building rather than flying. You will be split into Aerospace and Avionics and can choose to study either. You will end up with a BE in Aerospace or Avionics.
- Education: FSc (Pre-Engineering) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (at least 65% marks) or A-Level.
- Training: 4 years at the College of Aeronautical Engineering (CAE), Risalpur, leading to a BE in Aerospace or Avionics.
3 Air Defence (AD) Branch:
If defence is your go, then I can assure you this branch is your go; you will be trained to operate complex ground and sky radar systems, anti-aircraft systems. Your main task will be to monitor aerial borders and guide PAF aircraft, jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters in times of need.
- Education: FSc (Pre-Engineering, Pre-Medical, or ICS) with Physics (at least 60% marks).
- Training: 4 years of specialised tactical training, leading to a BS in Air Defence Management.
4 Logistics Branch:
This branch deals with maintaining and managing fuel in aircraft in the air and on land, making sure they are not out of missiles, fuel, and other needed resources. If you are an expert or managing logistics is something you can imagine yourself doing, this is the branch for you. As you will be asked to manage entire supply chains and fleet transport.
- Education: FSc or ICS (with a relevant background) with at least 60% marks.
- Training: 4 years of training in logistics management and related stuff.
Selection Procedure
1 Online Registration:During the announcement of induction periods, you are to apply online through the PAF website.
2 Initial Tests:
Is conducted at your nearest PAF Selection and Information centre. A computer-based information test, along with testing your knowledge of Physics, Maths and English.
3 Interviews & ISSB:
An initial interview along with the ISSB, as I explained in a previous article: Check It here
4 Final Selection:
A central medical board evaluation and final merit lists are uploaded. If you pass, you will know and will have my congratulations on your success and the journey that awaits you.