Career and School Info for Aircraft Mechanics

Aircraft Mechanic Job Description

Career tips, salaries, and lists of schools.

Jets, helicopters and planes with propellers are complex machines that must perform well in extreme conditions. Aircraft mechanics are trained to maintain, inspect and repair aircraft in order to keep them in peak operating condition. Some aircraft mechanics specialize in specific sections of particular aircraft, such as engines, electrical systems, or hydraulics. Others are cross-trained in working on different kinds of aircraft. Most specialize in preventive maintenance, rather than repairs.

Specific responsibilities include:

• Inspecting engines, instruments, landing gear, pressurized sections, valves, brakes, pumps, air-conditioning systems, and other parts
• Checking for corrosion, cracks, and distortion in the fuselage, tail, and wings
• Using magnetic and x-ray inspection equipment to check for miniscule cracks
• Measuring parts for wear with precision instruments
• Repairing or replacing worn and defective parts and surfaces
• Measuring the tension of control cables
• Performing maintenance tasks such as cleaning and treating engine parts
• Following a maintenance and inspection schedule
• Keeping maintenance records
• Gathering diagnostic data from consoles and electronic boxes
• Testing equipment to make sure it works properly after repairs
• Troubleshooting mechanical issues identified by pilots

Degrees and Schools

Aircraft mechanics complete 12-24 month degree programs in avionics, aviation maintenance, or aviation technology at Federal Aviation Authority (FAA)-certified Aviation Maintenance Technician schools.

Coursework

Students in aircraft maintenance take a minimum of 1900 class hours applying industry software, tools and equipment. They learn about materials used in the construction of aircraft, such as turbine engines, aviation electronics, and composite materials. Specific courses include:

• Mathematics and computer science
• Physics and chemistry
• Electronics and mechanical drawing
• Writing skills

Online Classes and Programs

Aircraft maintenance, aviation technology and avionics degree programs are highly hands-on, and therefore are not well-suited to online learning. However, schools that offer these programs may make some courses available online. Any online course should be part of an FAA-certified Aviation Maintenance Technician school.

Employment Requirements

Employers typically hire mechanics that are certified by the FAA to work on civilian aircraft. Certification is offered in two parts - power plant and airframe - and most airlines prefer candidates who have the combined A and P certificate.

To become FAA certified, aircraft mechanics must:

• Be 18 years old
• Demonstrate fluency in English
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Complete an FAA-certified Aviation Maintenance Technician program
  
  OR
• Gain sufficient work experience - 18 months for either an airframe or power plant certificate, or 30 months experience on both engines and airframes for a combined A and P certificate
• Pass written, oral and practical tests

Mechanics that are trained on the job must be supervised by experienced, certified mechanics.

How to Evaluate Schools

Future aircraft mechanics should consider asking the following questions when comparing avionics, aviation technology and aircraft maintenance degree programs:

• Program focus - Does the program focus on aircraft maintenance? Does it provide comprehensive training in aircraft types of particular interest? Is the curriculum geared towards preparing students for certification?
• Accreditation - Is the program certified by the FAA?
• Practical experience - Does the program provide substantial hands-on training in aircraft maintenance? Is the school equipped with leading software, tools and equipment?
• Financial assistance - What financial aid options, such as grants, scholarships and student loans, are available?
• Career search - Is job placement coordinated by the school? What percentage of recent graduates are now certified and employed?

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