How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic
Do you have a passion for aviation? Are you interested in how planes work? If so, a career as an aircraft mechanic may be the perfect fit for you!
Aircraft mechanics are responsible for performing routine maintenance and repairs on airplanes. They must be able to troubleshoot problems and fix them quickly and efficiently. To become an aircraft mechanic, you must complete an accredited training program and obtain an A&P license.
This article will give you all the information you need to learn about becoming an aircraft mechanic!
There are a few different paths that you can take to become an aircraft mechanic. The first option is to complete an accredited training program. Many aviation schools across the country offer these programs.
The second option is to join the military. The military offers excellent training for those interested in becoming aircraft mechanics.
The third option is to obtain on-the-job training. This option is often best for those who already have experience working with machinery and tools.
Regardless of which path you choose, it is essential that you obtain an A&P license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). To do this, you will need to pass a written exam and a practical exam. Once you have your license, you can find employment at an airport or an aviation company.
How do you become an A&P Mechanic?
A&P Mechanics are also known as aviation maintenance technicians (AMT). A&P stands for airframe and Power Plant, meaning that A&P mechanics are licensed to work on and maintain an aircraft’s external (airframe) and engine (Power Plant) parts.
Those interested in becoming aircraft mechanics can expect to complete a training program that lasts anywhere from 18 months to two years. The curriculum for these programs will include coursework in mathematics, physics, and electronics. Students will also gain hands-on experience working with tools and machinery.
After completing a training program, students must pass the FAA exams to obtain their A&P license. Once they have their license, they will be able to find employment as an aircraft mechanic.
Choosing an aviation maintenance technicians AMT School
The first step to getting an A&P license is choosing an AMT school. There are many different schools across the country that offer aviation maintenance programs.
When choosing a school, it is crucial to ensure that the program is accredited by the FAA. In addition, selecting a school with a good reputation and is known for producing high-quality graduates is also essential.
Once you have chosen an AMT school, you must complete an application and submit it to the admissions office. Once your application has been processed, you will be notified of your acceptance into the program.
You will then need to attend orientation and complete any necessary paperwork. After that, you will begin your training!
Here’s a list of the top 10 AMT schools:
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Daytona Beach, FL)
Kansas State University Polytechnic Campus (Salina, KS)
Utah State University (Logan, UT)
Southern Illinois University, Carbondale (Carbondale, IL)
Lewis University (Romeoville, IL)
South Dakota State University (Brookings, SD)
Hallmark University (San Antonio, TX)
Everglades University (Boca Raton, FL)
LeTourneau University (Longview, TX)
Vaughn College (Flushing, NY)
The aviation maintenance technicians’ training process
It’s essential to attend an AMT school that has an up-to-date curriculum and teaches the latest procedures. The aviation maintenance technician training process will prepare you for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) exams and, ultimately, your career as an aircraft mechanic.
During your time at school, you’ll take classes in subjects such as mathematics, physics, and electronics. You’ll also get hands-on experience working with tools and machinery.
Maintenance training is tough, but it’s worth every minute of the hard work! Students undergo training to ensure they can perform maintenance on any type or model aircraft.
In addition, they’re required to buy their own tools pre-college so they can continue using them throughout schooling and future jobs. Some schools even get significant discounts on these expensive items if you connect with certain companies in advance.
Labs allow students to work on the aircraft and practice lessons taught in class. Depending on the training, students may be able to work on different aircraft systems. This experience is beneficial because it gives students a feel for what they will be doing once they start their careers. Many employers prefer to hire mechanics that have some experience working on aircraft.
Schools typically have a variety of aircraft in their fleet so that students can get experience working with different types of aircraft. This is important because each aircraft has its own idiosyncrasies and requires slightly different maintenance procedures. Therefore, when students graduate from an AMT program, they should be well-versed in aircraft systems and maintenance procedures.
Aircraft mechanic salaries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $64,090 in 2018.
The top 25 percent of earners made more than $80,610, while the bottom 25 percent made less than $50,430.
Aircraft mechanics who work for the federal government tend to earn the highest salaries, followed by those who work for airlines.
Aircraft mechanic job outlook
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for aircraft mechanics and service technicians will grow by about four percent from 2018 to 2028. This is about average when compared to other occupations.
An aging fleet of airplanes will require more maintenance and repair in the coming years, leading to more job opportunities for aircraft mechanics.
There will also be a need to replace those mechanics who retire or leave the occupation.
So if you’re interested in becoming an aircraft mechanic, now is a great time to start your training!
What are you waiting for? Start searching for AMT schools today!
Aircraft mechanic certifications and licenses
Once you have completed your training and passed the FAA exams, you will be able to find employment as an aircraft mechanic. However, there are a few different certifications and licenses that aircraft mechanics can obtain.
The most common certification is the Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license. This license allows mechanics to work on both the airframe and engine of an airplane.
There is also the Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) certificate. This certificate is issued by the FAA and shows that a mechanic has completed an approved training program and passed the necessary exams.
Aircraft mechanics can also choose to specialize in areas such as avionics or engines.
Specialized certifications are available for those who want to pursue this type of career path.
Regardless of which route you choose, becoming an aircraft mechanic is a great way to start a rewarding career in the aviation industry!
Finding Work as an A&P Mechanic
You can find work as an A&P mechanic in a few different ways. The first is to search for open positions on job boards or with aviation companies.
Many companies will list their open positions on their website, so be sure to check the websites of companies that you are interested in working for.
Another way to find work is to network with other aviation professionals. You can meet other aviation professionals at trade shows or events.
You can also join an aviation association, such as the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA). Members of these organizations often have access to job postings and can provide helpful advice and resources.
Becoming an aircraft mechanic is a great way to start a rewarding career in the aviation industry! There are many ways to find work as an A&P mechanic, so be sure to explore all your options.
You can achieve your dream of working in the aviation industry with hard work and dedication!