AAI SSCO Consultant Recruitment 2026: 39 Posts Open for Retired Defence Officers, Apply by Email

AAI SSCO Consultant Recruitment 2026: A Complete Guide for Retired Defence Officers

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced Advertisement No. 14/2026/CHQ/SSCOs, offering a contract-based engagement for retired Short Service Commission Officers (SSCOs) as Consultants. A total of 39 positions are available across six airport locations, and the application window runs from 17 September 2026 to 11 November 2026. This recruitment is aimed at supporting Air Traffic Services (ATS) at Joint User Defence Airfields, making it an excellent opportunity for defence personnel with ATC experience to continue serving in a specialised aviation role.

Why This Recruitment Matters

AAI is a Schedule ‘A’ Mini Ratna Category-1 Public Sector Enterprise responsible for managing civil aviation infrastructure in India. The engagement of retired SSCOs as consultants helps bridge the expertise gap at joint-user airfields where both military and civil aircraft operate. The role demands a deep understanding of air traffic control procedures, particularly at defence airbases, and offers a structured one-year contract that can be extended up to five years, subject to performance and age limits.

Vacancy Distribution Across Six Airfields

The 39 posts are distributed as follows: Pune Airport (11 posts for Surface Movement Control), Kanpur Airport (2 posts), Purnea Airport (4 posts), Goa (Dabolim) Airport (15 posts, including 11 for SMC and 4 for ATC), Port Blair Airport (4 posts for SMC), and Darbhanga Airport (3 posts). Candidates should note that the location-wise requirement is fixed, and they may need to indicate their preference during the application process. The largest intake is at Goa/Dabolim, reflecting the high volume of joint-user operations there.

Eligibility Criteria in Detail

To be considered, applicants must be retired Short Service Commission Officers from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, or Indian Coast Guard. A graduate degree in any discipline from a recognised university is mandatory. Additionally, candidates must possess professional qualifications such as Basic ATC Course/ATM and AL (Basic) and GCA/ATSS Course. A minimum of five years of cumulative ATC experience is required, with at least one year at a Joint User Defence Airfield. The maximum age limit is 50 years as on the last date of application, and the gap between retirement and the application deadline must not exceed six years.

Application Process and Important Dates

Applications are accepted only via email to chqrectt@aai.aero. Candidates must download the prescribed application form (Annexure-1), fill it completely, attach self-attested copies of educational and experience certificates, and combine everything into a single PDF not exceeding 5 MB. The email must be sent on or before 11 November 2026. It is crucial to keep the provided email ID active, as all communication regarding shortlisting and interviews will be sent electronically. No other mode of application will be entertained.

Selection and Remuneration

The selection process involves shortlisting based on eligibility, followed by application verification and an interview. There is no written examination. Final merit is determined solely by interview performance. The remuneration is a fixed monthly amount calculated by deducting basic pension from the pay drawn at the time of retirement, as per DoPT guidelines. No annual increment is applicable, and HRA is not admissible. Transport allowance is provided as a fixed amount, and TDS will be deducted at source.

Contract Terms and Conditions

The initial engagement is for one year, extendable by one year at a time, up to a maximum of five years, and no extension will be granted beyond the age of 55. Consultants must serve full-time and cannot take up other assignments during the contract. Leave is admissible at 1.5 days per completed month, and unavailed leave lapses at the end of the calendar year. AAI may terminate the contract with one month’s notice or remuneration in lieu thereof. Consultants are also required to submit a medical fitness certificate before joining.

Documents Required

Applicants must include a recent photograph, signature, and self-attested copies of all supporting documents, including proof of educational qualifications, professional courses, and work experience. The application form requires details such as date of birth, service branch, date of joining and discharge, and complete contact information. Incomplete applications or those lacking supporting documents will be rejected.

Preparation Tips for Applicants

Given the niche eligibility, competition may be moderate, but thorough preparation is essential. Ensure all documents are in order and the application PDF is well-organised. Highlight your ATC experience, especially at joint-user airfields, as this is a key selection criterion. Keep your email ID and phone number active, and regularly check for updates from AAI. Since the interview is the sole selection tool, be ready to discuss your technical knowledge, past roles, and familiarity with defence airfield procedures.

Conclusion

This AAI recruitment offers a valuable second-innings opportunity for retired defence officers with ATC expertise. With 39 posts across six strategic locations, it is a chance to contribute to the safety and efficiency of India’s joint-user airfields. Interested candidates should act promptly and submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical issues.