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Pathankot AFS: Address, Exam Centre and How to Reach

Pathankot Air Force Station (Pathankot AFS) is a critical front-line airbase of the Indian Air Force (IAF) located in Punjab. Under the Western Air Command, it serves as a primary hub for fighter operations and plays a vital role in national security. The base also acts as a designated exam centre for IAF recruitment, and is easily accessible via Pathankot's well-developed road, rail, and air networks.
authorImageAmit kumar Singh7 Jan, 2026
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Pathankot AFS

Pathankot AFS is a strategic Indian Air Force base in Punjab, supporting front-line fighter operations and serving as a key exam centre with excellent connectivity via road, rail, and air. Pathankot Air Force Station is one of the most significant and oldest airbases of the Indian Air Force, situated near the international border in Pathankot, Punjab. Operating under the Western Air Command, it is a high-readiness base tasked with air defense and offensive operations. The station is a hub for various fighter squadrons and advanced surveillance units.

Pathankot Air Force Station Overview

Pathankot AFS is a premier operational base that hosts advanced fighter jets and attack helicopters. Its location makes it a cornerstone of India's western defense strategy.

Pathankot Air Force Station Overview

Feature

Details

Name

Pathankot Air Force Station (Pathankot AFS)

Location

Pathankot, Punjab, India

Operated by

Western Air Command, Indian Air Force

Runway

01/19, 2,743 m (8,999 ft) Asphalt

Key Units

No. 18 Wing, No. 26 Squadron, No. 108 Squadron

Aircraft

MiG-21 Bison, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Boeing AH-64E Apache

Established

1947

 

Pathankot Air Force Station Address

The official Pathankot Air Force Station address is: Pathankot Air Force Station, Pathankot, Punjab - 145001, India. This address is the primary point for all official communications, personnel identification, and navigation to the base.

Pathankot Air Force Station Exam Centre

The base frequently serves as a Pathankot Air Force Station exam centre for various Indian Air Force recruitment tests, including AFCAT and Agniveer selections.

  • Candidates allotted to this centre must carry their valid admit cards and follow all security protocols for entry.

  • The facility is equipped to handle multiple shifts of candidates while maintaining high security and administrative standards.

How to Reach Pathankot Air Force Station?

The Pathankot Air Force Station location is highly accessible due to Pathankot being a major transport junction for Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir.  Below are the primary ways for how to reach Pathankot Air Force Station:

By Road

  • Pathankot is well-connected via NH-44 and NH-154.

  • The airbase is approximately 5–7 km from the main Pathankot city center.

  • Regular state transport buses and private taxis are available from the Pathankot ISBT.

By Rail

  • The nearest railway station is Pathankot Cantonment (PTKC) or Pathankot Junction (PTK), located about 6–8 km from the base.

  • Both stations are major hubs for trains coming from Delhi, Amritsar, and Jammu.

  • Auto-rickshaws and app-based cabs are readily available at the station exit.

By Air

  • Pathankot Airport is a domestic airport situated adjacent to the military airbase.

  • For broader connectivity, Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar (ATQ) is about 125 km away.

  • Taxis from Amritsar airport take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to reach the station.

Local Transport

  • Local e-rickshaws, autos, and private cabs are the most common ways to reach the main gate of the airbase within the city.

  • Clear signboards are placed along the main approach roads to guide visitors to the Pathankot Air Force Station entrance.

Pathankot AFS remains a vital pillar of the Indian Air Force’s operational readiness. Whether you are a candidate visiting the exam centre or personnel reporting for duty, understanding the Pathankot Air Force Station location and travel routes ensures a smooth visit.

 

Pathankot AFS FAQs

Where is Pathankot Air Force Station located?

It is located in Pathankot, Punjab, near the international border. For precise navigation, use the Pathankot Air Force Station location on digital maps.

What is the importance of this airbase?

It is a strategic front-line base under the Western Air Command, responsible for air defense and offensive capabilities along the western sector.

What aircraft are stationed at Pathankot AFS?

The base hosts a variety of aircraft, including MiG-21 interceptors and advanced Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters.

How can I reach the station from the railway station?

You can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi from Pathankot Cantonment or Pathankot Junction; the base is approximately 6–8 km away. Search for "How to reach Pathankot Air Force Station" for real-time traffic updates.

Is Pathankot AFS a permanent exam centre?

It is often designated as a Pathankot Air Force Station exam centre for specific IAF recruitment cycles. Candidates should always verify the exact venue mentioned on their official admit cards.
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