AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026: Apply Online for 06 Posts at NSCBI Airport, Kolkata
Kolkata, West Bengal – 30 January 2026
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced a significant opportunity for young technical graduates and diploma holders residing in West Bengal. A new recruitment notification for AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026 has been officially released for 06 posts at the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport in Kolkata. This recruitment drive, specifically targeting candidates holding a West Bengal domicile certificate, offers a valuable pathway into the aviation industry through a structured apprenticeship program.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI), a Miniratna Public Sector Enterprise under the Ministry of Civil Aviation, operates and manages airports across the country, making it a pivotal organization in India's infrastructure and connectivity framework. The current recruitment for AAI Apprentice 2026 at NSCBI Airport, Kolkata, aims to identify qualified individuals for a one-year training period. The program is specifically designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge gained during academic studies and the practical skills required in a professional setting. This initiative is part of AAI's broader commitment to skill development and talent nurturing, particularly within the local communities where its airports operate.
Candidates eligible for the AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026 must complete the application process online through the government's official apprenticeship portals, specifically the NATS/BOPT portal. This system ensures transparency and standardization in apprenticeship hiring across various public sector undertakings (PSUs) and government organizations. As of 30 January 2026, the online application window is open, and aspiring candidates are encouraged to verify their eligibility criteria meticulously before proceeding with the registration process. Given the limited number of vacancies (06 posts) and the prestige associated with working for AAI, competition for these positions is expected to be high among qualified candidates from West Bengal.
Detailed Overview of AAI Apprentice Vacancies and Eligibility
The recruitment notification for AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026 specifies a total of 06 posts, categorized for different types of apprenticeships. These positions are divided between Graduate Apprentices and Diploma Apprentices, each requiring specific educational qualifications in engineering and technology. The primary requirement for all applicants is possessing a valid West Bengal domicile certificate, ensuring that the opportunity benefits the local population in and around Kolkata. The specific breakdown of posts across different engineering disciplines (such as Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, etc.) will be detailed in the official notification, which candidates must review carefully to ensure they meet the specific requirements for their chosen discipline.
For the Graduate Apprentice positions, candidates must possess a full-time Bachelor's degree (B.E./B.Tech) in a relevant engineering discipline from a recognized university or institution. The degree must be in a field specified by the recruitment notification, such as Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Electronics and Communication, or Computer Science engineering. A minimum percentage or CGPA in the qualifying degree examination is often specified (typically around 60%), which candidates must meet to be considered eligible. The degree must have been awarded recently, usually within the last few years, to ensure that the candidate's technical knowledge is current. Specific details regarding minimum marks and a clear definition of 'recent pass out' are crucial elements to check in the official notification.
Similarly, for the Diploma Apprentice positions, candidates must possess a full-time Diploma in engineering from a recognized polytechnic or institution. The relevant fields for diploma holders typically mirror those for graduate apprentices, including Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical engineering streams. The eligibility criteria for diploma apprentices also include a specific minimum percentage or CGPA, generally around 60% in the final year of the diploma program. Both graduate and diploma candidates must verify their eligibility based on the specified engineering branches, as the requirement for different branches varies according to the operational needs of AAI at NSCBI Airport, Kolkata.
Apart from educational qualifications, age limits are also applicable for AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026. The maximum age limit for applicants is typically set around 26 years as of a specific cut-off date mentioned in the notification. However, relaxations in the upper age limit are usually provided for candidates belonging to reserved categories (SC/ST/OBC) as per government rules and regulations. Candidates must ensure they meet both the educational qualifications and age criteria to proceed with the application process. Furthermore, candidates who have already completed an apprenticeship program or have significant work experience in the relevant field may be ineligible, as the objective of this program is primarily to provide training to fresh graduates and diploma holders.
Understanding the Application Process and NATS Portal
The application process for the AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is entirely online, utilizing the National Apprenticeship Training Scheme (NATS) portal. NATS, previously known as the Board of Practical Training (BOPT) portal for the Eastern region, serves as a centralized platform for various organizations to offer apprenticeship opportunities. This portal facilitates the matching of eligible candidates with suitable training positions in PSUs like AAI. Therefore, the application process for these 06 posts at NSCBI Airport, Kolkata, requires candidates to first register themselves on the NATS portal before applying specifically to the AAI recruitment.
The first step for aspiring candidates is registration on the NATS/BOPT portal (https://www.nats.education.gov.in/). Candidates who are not already registered on this portal must complete the initial registration process. This involves providing personal details, educational qualifications, contact information, and uploading necessary documents. Once registered, candidates receive a unique registration number, which is essential for applying to any apprenticeship program listed on the platform. The registration process itself is straightforward and designed to verify the academic credentials of the applicant, ensuring they meet the basic requirements before applying for specific vacancies.
After successful registration on the NATS portal, candidates must then search for the specific AAI Kolkata recruitment 2026 advertisement. The Airports Authority of India will list the available apprentice positions (Graduate/Diploma Apprentice) on its profile within the portal. Candidates must locate the specific advertisement for NSCBI Airport, Kolkata, and click on the "Apply" button. It is crucial to read the entire notification again at this stage, as the specific requirements (like engineering branch or minimum percentage) might be detailed in the individual advertisement. The online application form typically requires candidates to reconfirm their details, select their preferred engineering discipline, and potentially answer additional questions related to their interests and skills. This two-step process—NATS registration followed by specific application—is standard procedure for apprenticeship recruitment drives in government organizations.
A significant advantage of applying through the NATS portal is its role in simplifying the application process for both candidates and organizations. It ensures that only registered and verified candidates apply, streamlining the selection process. Candidates must ensure all details provided during registration and application are accurate and verifiable. Any discrepancy found during document verification at a later stage could lead to disqualification. The online application mode also allows candidates to complete the process from the comfort of their home, provided they have access to a stable internet connection and necessary documents in digital format.
Selection Process and Future Prospects
The selection process for AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026 for the 06 posts at NSCBI Airport, Kolkata, typically follows a merit-based system. Given the high competition and the large number of applicants usually attracted by AAI vacancies, the initial shortlisting of candidates is based primarily on the percentage of marks obtained in their qualifying B.E./B.Tech degree or Diploma examination. Candidates with higher academic scores are generally given priority during the shortlisting phase. The official notification for AAI Apprentice 2026 will likely specify the methodology used for generating the merit list, including any weightage given to specific academic achievements or entrance examination scores if applicable.
After shortlisting based on academic merit, a certain number of candidates are called for document verification and an interview. The interview process for apprenticeships generally focuses on assessing the candidate's technical knowledge, aptitude for learning, and communication skills. The interview panel comprises subject matter experts from AAI who evaluate the candidate's understanding of engineering principles relevant to the airport's operations. This stage is critical for final selection, as it helps AAI identify individuals who not only possess good grades but also demonstrate potential for practical application and professional growth within the organization.
During the one-year training period, selected candidates will receive a monthly stipend. The stipend amount for AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026 is determined based on government guidelines for apprenticeship programs. Generally, Graduate Apprentices receive a higher stipend compared to Diploma Apprentices. This financial assistance allows candidates to focus on their training without immediate financial stress. The stipend for Graduate Apprentices usually falls within the range of ₹15,000 to ₹18,000 per month, while Diploma Apprentices receive a slightly lesser amount, typically between ₹12,000 and ₹15,000 per month, depending on AAI's internal policies and current government recommendations for apprenticeship stipends. This financial support, combined with invaluable industry experience, makes the AAI Apprentice program highly attractive for young graduates.
It is important for candidates to understand that completing the apprenticeship program does not automatically guarantee permanent employment within AAI. The apprenticeship is primarily a training program designed to enhance skills and provide practical experience in a real-world environment. However, the experience gained during the one-year period greatly improves a candidate's future job prospects, especially when applying for permanent positions in AAI or other PSUs in the aviation or engineering sectors. The hands-on training received at NSCBI Airport, Kolkata, covers various aspects of airport operations, maintenance, and project management, making candidates significantly more competitive in the job market.
Key Information and Important Dates Summary
As of 30 January 2026, candidates must keep a close watch on the official AAI website and the NATS portal for precise updates regarding the application deadlines for AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026. The official notification will provide all crucial dates and details necessary for applying to these 06 posts. Aspiring candidates are advised to prepare all necessary documents, including academic mark sheets, degree/diploma certificates, caste certificates (if applicable), and most importantly, their West Bengal domicile certificate, in digital format to ensure a smooth online application process.
The Sarkari Result All website (https://www.sarkariresultall.in/) and other similar platforms will track updates related to the AAI Apprentice 2026 recruitment. Candidates can regularly check these sources for official notifications and application links. This information flow ensures that candidates in West Bengal do not miss out on this opportunity to gain experience at NSCBI Airport, Kolkata. The table below provides a concise summary of the key details related to this recruitment drive:
| Recruitment Name | AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026 |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Airports Authority of India (AAI) |
| Location of Apprenticeship | Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International (NSCBI) Airport, Kolkata |
| Total Number of Posts | 06 Posts |
| Post Type | Graduate Apprentice / Diploma Apprentice |
| Application Mode | Online via NATS/BOPT portal |
| Eligibility Criteria | B.E./B.Tech or Diploma in relevant engineering discipline; West Bengal domicile required. |
| Application Start Date | Not Available (Check official notification) |
| Last Date to Apply | Not Available (Check official notification) |
This apprenticeship program presents an excellent opportunity for technical graduates and diploma holders from West Bengal to kickstart their careers in the aviation sector. The experience and skills acquired at AAI are invaluable, providing a strong foundation for future professional endeavors. Candidates are urged to follow the official notification closely for specific details on eligibility, selection criteria, and important dates for the AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about AAI Apprentice Recruitment 2026
Q1: What is the last date to apply for the AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026?A: The specific last date to apply for the AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026 has not been specified in the initial short information. Candidates must refer to the full official notification released by AAI on the NATS/BOPT portal and the AAI corporate website for precise application start and end dates. As of 30 January 2026, the application window is open, and candidates are advised to apply as soon as possible to avoid technical issues at the last minute.
Q2: Who is eligible for the AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice posts in Kolkata?A: To be eligible for these 06 posts, candidates must meet specific criteria: (1) They must hold a valid West Bengal domicile certificate. (2) They must have completed either a B.E./B.Tech degree (for Graduate Apprentice) or a Diploma (for Diploma Apprentice) in a relevant engineering discipline (such as Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, etc.) from a recognized institution. (3) The candidate's age generally should not exceed 26 years as on the cut-off date, with relaxations for reserved categories.
Q3: Is previous experience or apprenticeship completion allowed for this AAI recruitment?A: No, candidates who have already completed an apprenticeship program under the Apprentices Act, 1961, or have work experience of one year or more in the relevant field are typically not eligible to apply. The AAI Apprentice program is designed for fresh graduates and diploma holders seeking entry-level training.
Q4: What is the selection process for AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026?A: The selection process for the AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026 involves a merit-based shortlisting, primarily based on the percentage of marks obtained in the qualifying degree or diploma examination. Shortlisted candidates will then be called for document verification and possibly an interview to assess their technical knowledge and suitability for the position. The final selection will be based on the combined performance in academics and the interview process.
Q5: What stipend will be offered to the selected apprentices at NSCBI Airport, Kolkata?A: The selected apprentices will receive a monthly stipend as per government regulations and AAI policies. Typically, Graduate Apprentices receive a stipend of around ₹15,000 to ₹18,000 per month, while Diploma Apprentices receive slightly less, usually between ₹12,000 and ₹15,000 per month. The exact amount will be mentioned in the official notification.
Q6: How can I apply for the AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026?A: The application process is online. First, candidates must register on the government's official NATS portal (National Apprenticeship Training Scheme). Once registered, they need to apply specifically for the AAI Kolkata recruitment 2026 advertisement available on the NATS portal. The entire process is handled digitally through the portal.
Q7: Is there any application fee for the AAI Apprentice recruitment?A: Generally, there is no application fee required for government-mandated apprenticeship programs under the Apprentices Act. However, candidates should always verify this information in the official notification for AAI Graduate/Diploma Apprentice Recruitment 2026 to confirm.
Q8: Does an apprenticeship with AAI guarantee a permanent job after one year?A: No, completion of the AAI Apprentice program does not guarantee permanent employment in AAI. The program is specifically designed for one year of training. However, the experience gained provides valuable exposure to the aviation industry, significantly enhancing a candidate's profile for future job applications, including potential permanent roles at AAI or other PSUs when they are advertised.