Aircraft Mechanic Career Guide

Becoming an aircraft mechanic is a rewarding career that ensures planes are safe and ready to fly.

But it’s not as simple as grabbing a wrench and diving in.

It requires hands-on training, knowledge of aircraft systems, and passing strict certification tests.

FAA stats show that mechanics are in high demand as the aviation industry grows.

The job involves everything from diagnosing engine problems to maintaining cutting-edge avionics.

With the right training, you’ll learn to keep these incredible machines in top shape.

But don’t skip the certifications—without them, you can’t work on aircraft legally.

What Does An Aircraft Mechanic Do?

Aircraft mechanics (or Aviation Maintenance Technicians) spend their days working on a variety of airplanes and/or helicopters. It is a great career in aviation for those that might be a little fearful of actually flying.

A related opportunity if you are looking for a flying career, is to become a crop duster. You can still use some mechanical chops – while flying slow and low and keeping crops healthy.

There are a large variety of tasks that might be done on any given day including making repairs or doing general maintenance. Aircraft mechanics are responsible for the safety of passengers, pilots, and flight attendants, so this is not a career for the light-hearted.

Some typical day-to-day activities might include:

• Repairing damaged engines
• Diagnosing issues using a variety of machines
• Replacing worn plane parts
• Maintain plane records either with a computer or ledger
• Testing repairs with diagnostic equipment

Becoming an aircraft mechanic is a generalized career but opportunities are also available to specialize in certain sections or even aircraft types.

Some mechanics can even work with airplane repossession professionals to fix up planes that need to be repossessed. This can be a lucrative career in the transportation industry and have you flying all over the world.

Related: Are aircraft mechanics blue collar jobs?

Specialties

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) offers what is called the “A&P Certificate”. This represents two unique specialties within the aircraft mechanic training process.

• A is for Airframe mechanics.
• P is for Powerplant aircraft mechanics.

You can opt to be dual certified in both or just be certified in one specific area, but for the best future opportunities, we would highly recommend obtaining the full A&P Certification.

How To Become An Aircraft Mechanic

Becoming an aircraft mechanic does require some education, training, and practical experience. You might want to specialize in a certain type of aircraft as well, which you would need to decide upfront so you can pick the right school.

For example, you may want to help commercial helicopter pilots with their maintenance and upkeep or work for a private jet company. While some classes might apply to all types of planes, working on specific types may differ in the hands-on training you require.

Many who want to be plane mechanics will choose to attend FAA-approved aircraft technician schools.

Below is everything you need to know to become a mechanic in the aviation industry.

Basic Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Fluent in English
• High school diploma or GED

Education Requirements or On-The-Job Training

There are 2 options to get into this career. The recommended option is to attend an FAA-certified training school but this can be replaced with on-the-job training if it meets requirements.

FAA Approved Training School

This is the preferred option for becoming an aircraft mechanic. Attending an FAA-approved trade school (a “147 school” which is in accordance with 14 CFR part 147) will help you get the required education and real-world experience you need to be successful.

Below are some basics you can expect from a trade school experience:

• 400 hours of aircraft fundamentals
• 750 hours of airframe classes
• 750 hours of powerplant classes

On The Job Training

Another option is to gain experience with on-the-job training. It is important to note that there are very specific requirements to becoming a mechanic this way and you must always be under the watchful eye of a certified aircraft mechanic.

The one bonus to becoming an aviation mechanic this way is the savings on school costs.

• If looking to become A& P certified you will need at least 30 months working in an aircraft mechanic position that is split between aircraft and powerplant skills.
• If you only want to be A OR P certified you will need at least 18 months working in either aircraft or powerplant mechanics.
• If you are military, some specialties offer training through the Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council.
• It is required that you document every on-the-job training hour in a log which should include tasks performed, time spent, and signed off on by a certified airframe or powerplant technician.

Testing Requirements

• 30 hours of experience or completion of Part 147 FAA-approved school
• Written exam
• Oral test
• Practical test

Recommended Skills For Aircraft Mechanics

A love of planes and mechanics are just small pieces of what is needed to be successful in the aviation field!

Ensuring you have the traits and basic skills needed before you take this journey will help set you up for a successful career.

Pros & Cons Of Being An Aircraft Mechanic

Be sure to check out our in-depth article on the pros and cons of being an aircraft mechanic.

How Much Do Aircraft Mechanics Make?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average median salary for an aircraft technician in 2023 was $75,400 annually.

This range can vary based on location, level of training, and experience.

Aircraft Mechanic Job Outlook

The general outlook for aircraft mechanics is expected to rise by 5% through 2033.

The increased growth in travel and shipping will continue to push the need for workers. The growth in space exploration will also add another level of opportunity.