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AAI ATC Exam Pattern - Marking Scheme and More

AAI ATC Exam Pattern: AAI ATC Exam has two sections — Technical (Physics and Mathematics) and Non-Technical (GK, English, Reasoning, Quant). Each section has 60 ques of 1 mark each with no negative marking.
authorImageParul Rishi13 Mar, 2025
AAI ATC Exam Pattern

AAI ATC Exam Pattern: The AAI ATC Exam is one of the most important competitive exams in India for candidates aspiring to work in the Airport Authority of India. The AAI conducts this exam to recruit eligible candidates for the post of Junior Executive (Air Traffic Control).

To appear for the AAI ATC Exam, it is crucial to understand the exam pattern, syllabus, marking scheme, and selection process. A clear strategy based on the  AAI ATC exam pattern can help you effectively plan your studies.

 What will we discuss here?

  • AAI ATC Exam Pattern
  • Marking scheme and subject-wise weightage
  • Stage Wise preparation tips

AAI ATC Exam Pattern

The AAI ATC Exam follows a structured pattern to assess both technical knowledge and general aptitude. Understanding the exam pattern will help candidates focus on key areas and manage their time during the exam. 

The AAI ATC exam is conducted in online mode as a Computer-Based Test (CBT). It consists of two sections — Technical and Non-Technical — with a total of 120 questions. The exam duration is 120 minutes (2 hours), and the medium of the test is English. As per the marking scheme, candidates are awarded +1 mark for each correct answer, with no negative marking for incorrect responses. The selection process involves multiple stages: Written Test, Psychoactive Substances Test, Voice Test, Medical Examination, and Document Verification. Here’s a quick summary of the AAI ATC exam pattern:

 AAI ATC Exam Pattern Overview 
Exam Name AAI Air Traffic Controller (ATC) Exam
Conducting Body Airports Authority of India (AAI)
Mode of Exam Online (Computer-Based Test)
Total Sections Two (Technical & Non-Technical)
Total Questions 120
Duration 120 minutes (2 hours)
Marking Scheme +1 for correct answers, No negative marking
Language English
Selection Process Written Test → Psychoactive Substances Test → Voice Test → Medical Examination → Document Verification

Detailed AAI ATC Exam Pattern

The AAI ATC Written Exam is the first and most crucial stage of the selection process for the post of Junior Executive (Air Traffic Control). Understanding the exam pattern is essential for effective preparation as it helps you focus on the right subjects, manage your time, and plan a solid strategy for the exam. The AAI ATC Written Exam has two main sections. 

  1. Technical Section
  2. Non-Technical Section

Let’s break down the AAI ATC Exam Pattern step by step. Each section has equal weightage, with 60 questions each.

AAI ATC CBT Exam Pattern
Section Subjects Number of Questions Duration
Part A

English Language (20 Marks)

General Intelligence / Reasoning (15 Marks)

General Aptitude / Numerical Ability (15 Marks)

General Knowledge / Awareness (10 Marks) 

60 2 hours
Part B Physics and Mathematics (based on B.Sc and B.E/B.Tech level) 60
 Total 120

AAI ATC Exam Technical Section

The Technical Section focuses on subjects from Physics and Mathematics. Candidates with backgrounds in Electronics and Communication (ECE), Electrical (EEE), or Information Technology (IT) will find this section familiar.

How to Prepare for Technical Section?

The Technical Section contains 60 questions. Each correct answer fetches 1 mark, and there is no negative marking for wrong answers.

  • Physics and Mathematics: Revise the fundamentals from NCERT books (Class 11 and 12).
  • Practice: Solve numerical problems daily and take mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.

AAI ATC Exam Non-Technical Section

The Non-Technical Section assesses a candidate’s general aptitude. It includes:

  • General Knowledge
  • English Language
  • Reasoning
  • Quantitative Aptitude

How to Prepare for Non-Technical Section?

Like the Technical Section, the Non-Technical Section also contains 60 questions, each carrying 1 mark.

  • General Knowledge: Stay updated with daily news and revise important events of the past 6 months.
  • English: Practice grammar exercises and read newspapers to improve vocabulary.
  • Reasoning and Quant: Solve puzzles, mock tests, and the previous year's question papers to sharpen your problem-solving speed.

AAI ATC Marking Scheme

Understanding the AAI ATC Marking Scheme is crucial for candidates preparing for the Junior Executive (Air Traffic Control) exam. Knowing how marks are awarded and whether there’s any penalty for wrong answers — helps you build a solid attempt strategy.

In the AAI ATC exam, each correct answer is awarded 1 mark. There is no penalty for wrong answers, allowing candidates to attempt all questions without the fear of losing marks. The maximum score a candidate can achieve is 120 marks. Let’s break down the marking scheme in detail:

AAI ATC Marking Scheme
Category Marks per Question Negative Marking
Correct Answer +1 No
Wrong Answer 0 No


PW provides SSC exam content, including sample papers, mock tests, guidance sessions, and more. Also, enroll today on SSC Online Coaching for preparation.

AAI ATC Exam Pattern - FAQs

How many questions are there in the AAI ATC exam?

The AAI ATC exam has 120 multiple-choice questions — 60 from Technical subjects and 60 from Non-Technical subjects.

Is there negative marking in the AAI ATC exam?

No, there is no negative marking in the AAI ATC exam. You can attempt all questions without fear of losing marks.

What is the duration of the AAI ATC exam?

The exam duration is 2 hours (120 minutes). You have to answer 120 questions within this time.

What are the main subjects in the AAI ATC Technical section?

The Technical section covers Physics and Mathematics.
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