do you need a credit card to make an account (ipad air)

If you want to download anything from the App Store, even if it's free, you need to supply a credit card. If you just want to use the iPad Air without downloading any apps, music, videos, or TV shows then you don't need a credit card. If you're referring to an iCloud account to run Photostream and such, then you don't need a credit card.

No. When setting up your iPad you can select "none" as a payment option.

You actually don't need any form of payment. Selecting none in your account should allow you to download free apps.

It will prompt you to add a method of payment when you want to purchase an app.

How to Get Apps From the App Store Without a Credit Card

http://ipadhelp.com/ipad-help/how-to-get-free-apps-from-the-app-store-without-a- credit-card/

Creating an iTunes Store, App Store, iBookstore, and Mac App Store account without a credit card

http://support.apple.com/kb/ht2534

Why can’t I select None when I edit my payment information?

http://support.apple.com/kb/ts5366

If None is not available - On your computer launch iTunes and click “iTunes Store” in the left navigation pane. Click the “down arrow” next to your name at the top right side of the page and click “Account.” Enter your username and password and click “View Account” to log into your account information. Next to your Payment Type, click “Edit.” Select the “None” button and click “Done.” Confirm that your card has been removed by returning to the Apple account information screen. Under Payment Type, it should say that there is no credit card on file.

iTunes Store: Changing your payment information

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1918

iTunes Store Accepted Forms of Payment

http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5552

 Cheers, Tom 😉