AFCAT Height, Weight & Vision Standards 2026 (Men & Women)
Every year, thousands of aspirants apply for AFCAT but only a few make it to the final merit list. One of the main reasons for rejection is not meeting the Indian Air Force Physical Standards. The IAF is very strict about a candidate’s height, weight, eyesight, and overall medical fitness. If you are planning to appear for AFCAT 2026, make sure you know the correct AFCAT height, weight, and vision requirements before applying.
In this post, you will find all physical eligibility details for both men and women — including Flying and Ground Duty branches, BMI chart, visual acuity limits, and medical guidelines followed at Air Force Selection Boards (AFSB).
AFCAT Physical Standards Overview 2026
| Physical Parameter | Standard Criteria |
|---|---|
| Height | Flying: Min 162.5 cm; Ground Duty: 157.5 cm (Men), 152 cm (Women) |
| Weight | Should be in proportion to height as per BMI chart |
| Vision (Eyesight) | 6/6 in one eye and 6/9 in the other, correctable to 6/6 both eyes |
| Hearing | Normal hearing, no history of ear surgery or chronic infections |
| Speech & Dental | Clear speech and healthy gums, no missing front teeth |
Minimum Height Requirements for AFCAT 2026
The minimum height standards vary according to the branch of the Indian Air Force. Here is the official branch-wise height requirement:
| Branch | Men (Minimum Height) | Women (Minimum Height) |
|---|---|---|
| Flying Branch | 162.5 cm | 162.5 cm |
| Ground Duty (Technical) | 157.5 cm | 152 cm |
| Ground Duty (Non-Technical) | 157.5 cm | 152 cm |
Note: Candidates from Gorkha, Garhwali, Kumaoni, and North-Eastern regions get a relaxation of up to 5 cm in height.
Leg Length, Sitting Height & Thigh Length (Flying Branch)
These parameters are applicable only to candidates applying for the Flying Branch:
| Measurement | Required Range |
|---|---|
| Leg Length | Minimum – 99 cm, Maximum – 120 cm |
| Thigh Length | Maximum – 64 cm |
| Sitting Height | Minimum – 81.5 cm, Maximum – 96 cm |
AFCAT Weight Standards 2026
Weight should be in proportion to height as per the Body Mass Index (BMI) guidelines. The IAF considers candidates fit if their BMI lies between 18.5 and 24.9.
Average Weight Chart (Men)
| Height (cm) | Acceptable Weight (kg) |
|---|---|
| 152 | 48–54 |
| 157 | 51–57 |
| 162 | 54–61 |
| 167 | 56–64 |
| 172 | 59–67 |
Average Weight Chart (Women)
| Height (cm) | Acceptable Weight (kg) |
|---|---|
| 148 | 42–47 |
| 152 | 44–49 |
| 157 | 46–52 |
| 162 | 48–54 |
| 167 | 51–56 |
AFCAT Vision Standards 2026
Vision standards are extremely strict for Flying Branch and slightly relaxed for Ground Duty branches.
Flying Branch Vision Standards
- Near Vision: N-5 each eye
- Distant Vision: 6/6 in one eye, 6/9 in the other, correctable to 6/6 both eyes
- Color Vision: CP-I (perfect color perception)
- LASIK/PRK Surgery: Allowed only if done after age 20, with limits between -5.5D and +5.5D
Ground Duty (Technical & Non-Technical) Vision Standards
- Myopia: Up to -3.5D
- Hypermetropia: Up to +3.5D
- Color Vision: CP-II
- LASIK: Allowed after 20 years of age with stable refraction for 6 months
Common Medical Conditions Leading to Rejection
- Knock knees or flat feet
- Color blindness or weak vision
- Overweight (BMI > 25) or underweight (BMI < 18)
- History of mental illness or asthma after 12 years of age
- Past fractures or spinal deformities
Physical Fitness Tips for AFCAT Aspirants
- Start early with daily jogging, push-ups, and core exercises.
- Maintain a healthy diet — protein-rich and low-fat meals.
- Get your eyes and ears tested before AFSB to avoid last-minute shocks.
- Stay hydrated and avoid weight fluctuations before the medical exam.
Conclusion
The AFCAT Height, Weight & Vision Standards 2026 are set to ensure that every officer in the Indian Air Force meets the highest physical and medical fitness benchmarks. Before applying, check your height, BMI, and eyesight carefully. Remember, even if you are slightly under or overweight, consistent training and discipline can bring you within limits. Fitness is not a one-time goal — it’s a lifestyle. Start preparing your body and mind together, because both are equally important to wear that blue uniform with pride.
Keywords used: AFCAT Height Weight Chart 2026, AFCAT Vision Standards, AFCAT Medical Standards 2026, AFCAT Height for Male Female, AFCAT Physical Eligibility, AFCAT Eyesight 2026.