How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic?

Aircraft maintenance technician has a high demand in the aviation industry. They are responsible for performing repairs and preventative maintenance on all types of planes, helicopters, etc., working as an integral part of making sure that they can fly anytime anywhere! In order to become certified you will need FAA certification which only lasts one year before needing another examination again; this process takes about six months total time (3+years).

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Many people who work closely with AMTs say that these technicians display exceptional knowledge when handling machinery like airplanes because it requires detailed skills such as those found within engineering drawings or mechanics calculations used during troubleshooting procedures. The working conditions can be dirty, loud and dangerous so it is important to have a good attitude!

aircraft mechanic working

Overview

The job of an airline mechanic is critical to the safety of all travelers on board any aircraft. A great deal of knowledge, experience, and dedication must be invested in order to become an airline mechanic. With the right training, certifications and experience, you can join the ranks of this important profession and help ensure that aircraft remain safe for all who travel.

So you want to be an airline mechanic? That’s a great choice! Airline mechanics are in high demand and the job comes with a lot of responsibility. Not to mention, it can be pretty exciting too. But before you can start fixing planes, you need to know how to become an airline mechanic.

Requirements

Few Requirements that you can become an aircraft mechanic:

  • One of the best ways to become an aircraft mechanic is to join the military. In the military, you will receive training in how to maintain and repair aircraft.
  • You will also learn about the different types of aircraft and how they work.
  • The first way is to attend an aviation maintenance technician school that is approved by the FAA. These schools will teach you everything you need to know about repairing and maintaining aircraft.
  • To become an aircraft mechanic, you will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Once you have completed your schooling, you will then need to take and pass the FAA exams in order to receive your certification.
  • After that, you will need to complete an aviation maintenance technician program that is approved by the FAA.
  • After you have your certification, you will need to keep it up to date by taking continuing education courses.

Thinking of Becoming an Airline Mechanic? Know This!

The first step to becoming an airline mechanic is completing an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school. There are many schools across the country that offer this type of program. The length of the program will vary depending on the school you choose, but most programs take between 18 and 24 months to complete. 

During your time in school, you will learn everything from aircraft regulations to maintenance procedures. You will also get plenty of hands-on experience working on actual aircraft. Once you have completed your schooling, you will need to pass the FAA Aircraft Maintenance Technician knowledge test. This is a computerized exam that tests your knowledge of aircraft regulations and maintenance procedures. 

The final step to becoming an airline mechanic is receiving your FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificates. These certificates show that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to work on both the airframe and engine of an aircraft. To receive these certificates, you must pass a written exam and a practical exam.

The written exam covers topics such as aircraft weight and balance, flight controls, and navigation systems. The practical exam tests your ability actually to perform maintenance procedures on an aircraft. 

Training and Experience

You can obtain the necessary training and experience by becoming an FAA-certified airframe and powerplant mechanic.

Obtain FAA-Certified Aviation Maintenance Technician Training

To become an airline mechanic, you must complete academic training at an FAA-certified Aviation Maintenance Technician School.  There are schools located all across the country that offer training programs designed to meet the standards set by the FAA. 

Most programs take between 18 months to 2 years to complete and will include both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Upon completion of an AMTS, you will be able to take the FAA exams for certification as an Airframe or Powerplant Mechanic. 

On-the-Job Training (OJT)

Another option for obtaining the necessary training and experience to become an airline mechanic is through on-the-job training (OJT). Many employers are willing to provide OJT to prospective employees who have some experience working with aircraft. 

With OJT, you will learn directly from experienced technicians in a real-world setting. Most OJT programs last between 18 months to 3 years, and will usually lead to certification as an airframe or Powerplant Mechanic upon completion. 

Types of Aircraft Mechanics

There are different types of aircraft mechanics:

  • A&P Mechanics An A&P mechanic is someone who has been trained and certified to work on both the airframe and the powerplant of an aircraft.
  • Airframe Mechanics An airframe mechanic is someone who has been trained and verified to work on just the airframe of an aircraft.
  • Powerplant Mechanics – A powerplant mechanic is instructed and certified to work on just the powerplant of an aircraft.
  • Instrument Mechanics An instrument mechanic is someone who has been trained and ratified to work on the instruments of an aircraft.
  • Avionics Mechanics An avionics mechanic is being who has been trained and certified to work on the avionics of an aircraft.

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What does an Aircraft Mechanic do?

  • An aircraft mechanic is responsible for the preservation and repair of aircraft.
  • They inspect, troubleshoot, and repair aircraft systems.
  • Aircraft mechanics may work on either the airframe or the engines of an aircraft.
  • Most aircraft mechanics work on both the airframe and the engines.
  • Aircraft mechanics typically work in hangars or on the flight line.
  • They may need to work in other locations, such as offices or warehouses.
  • Aircraft mechanics typically work full-time.

How to Get a Job as an Aircraft Mechanic

Discovering how to become an aircraft mechanic can pave the way for an interesting, well-paying career in the aviation field. There are numerous employment opportunities for those with the training and skills to work on aircraft.

Jobs can be found with airlines, general aviation firms, the military, governmental agencies, and private companies that own and operate their own fleets of airplanes. Earning a degree or certificate from an accredited college or technical school is the best way to qualify for most of these positions.     

Salary and Benefits

  • The median annual salary for an aircraft mechanic is $64,090.
  • The top 10% of aircraft mechanics make more than $93,350.
  • The bottom 10% of aircraft mechanics make less than $39,560.

Where Does an Aircraft Mechanic Work?

An aircraft mechanic is a technician who handles the maintenance, repair, and inspection of aircraft. Aircraft mechanics typically work in two different environments: an airport hangar or an airplane workshop. They may also work for the military or for private companies that operate aircraft fleets.

Airport hangars are large buildings where aircraft are stored and maintained. Mechanics who work in airport hangars typically have access to a wide range of tools and equipment, and they often work on multiple aircraft at the same time.

Airplane workshops are smaller facilities that are specifically designed for servicing aircraft. Mechanics who work in airplane workshops typically work on only one aircraft at a time. Both types of environments have their own unique challenges, but both types of mechanics play an essential role in keeping aircraft safe and operational.

Working as an aircraft mechanic can be a challenging but rewarding career. Those who are passionate about aviation and have the desire to help keep planes safe and operational can find success in this field.

What is the Job Outlook for an Aircraft Mechanic?

The job outlook for an aircraft mechanic is good. There are expected to be about 26,700 new jobs created between 2016 and 2026. This is a growth rate of about 3% up to date by taking continuing education courses.

Skills for Aircraft Mechanics

  • Understanding: Aircraft mechanics need to have a strong understanding of the principles of aerodynamics. They also need to be familiar with the different types of aircraft engines and how they work. Aircraft mechanics need to have strong problem-solving skills.
  • Diagnostic: They must be able to diagnose problems and figure out how to fix them.
  • Tools Expertise: Aircraft mechanics need to be able to use a variety of tools.
  • Reading comprehension: They must be able to read and understand technical manuals.
  • Communication skills: Aircraft mechanics need to have good communication skills. They must be able to work well with other members of the maintenance team.
  • Education for aircraft mechanics: Most aircraft mechanics have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some aircraft mechanics may have completed a training program at an aviation maintenance technician school. Aircraft mechanics must have a valid FAA certification. Aircraft mechanics need to keep their certifications up to date by taking continuing education courses.

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What are the Working Conditions for Aircraft Mechanics?

Aircraft mechanics work in hangars or on the flight line. They may be required to work in other locations, such as offices or warehouses. Aircraft mechanics typically work full-time. They may need to work overtime or on weekends to meet deadlines. The working conditions can be dirty, loud, and dangerous so it is important to have a good attitude and be able to work well under pressure. PPE is required to be worn while working on aircraft.

Aircraft mechanics typically work on both the airframe and the engines of an aircraft. Aircraft mechanics may work on either the aircraft or the engines of an aircraft. Most aircraft mechanics work on both the airframe and the engines.

how to become an aircraft mechanic

How Many Years does it take to Become an Aircraft Mechanic?

It typically takes 3-4 years to become an aircraft mechanic. You will need to have the highest school diploma or equivalent. After that, you will need to complete an aviation maintenance technician program that is approved by the FAA. After you have your certification, you will need to keep it up to date by taking continuing education courses.

What is the Difference Between an Aircraft Mechanic and an Avionics Technician?

An avionics technician installs, inspects, tests, and repairs aircraft electronics systems, such as radios, radar, and navigation equipment.

An aircraft mechanic is responsible for the maintenance and repair of aircraft structures and systems, such as the engines, landing gear, and brakes.

A Day in the Life of an Aircraft Mechanic

So, what does a typical day look like for an aircraft mechanic? Aircraft mechanics typically work 40 hours per week, although they may occasionally have to work overtime to meet deadlines. They typically work in hangars, although they may sometimes have to travel to other locations to perform repairs. 

When they are not working on repairs, aircraft mechanics are responsible for inspecting aircraft to ensure that they are safe for flight. They also conduct routine maintenance on aircraft, such as changing oil and filters and checking fluid levels. In addition, aircraft mechanics may be responsible for keeping records of their work and ordering parts and supplies. 

The most important thing that an aircraft mechanic can do is pay attention to detail. One small mistake can have devastating consequences, so it is important that every repair is done correctly the first time. In addition, aircraft mechanics need to be able to work well under pressure and meet tight deadlines. 

What Tools do Aircraft Mechanics use?

  • Aircraft mechanics use a variety of hand tools, such as wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers.
  • They also use power tools, such as drills and grinders.
  • They may also use test equipment, such as multimeters and oscilloscopes.

What Safety Equipment do Aircraft Mechanics use?

  • Aircraft mechanics use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, safety glasses, and earplugs.
  • They may also use respirators to protect themselves from fumes and dust.
  • Some aircraft mechanics may use fall protection equipment, such as harnesses and lanyards.

What are the Physical Demands of an Aircraft Mechanic?

  • Aircraft mechanics need to be able to lift heavy objects and work in cramped spaces.
  • They need to have good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
  • They also need to be able to stand for long periods of time.

Summary

Overall, the job of an aircraft mechanic requires an understanding of complex mechanical systems, a facility with tools and machinery, and a commitment to safety protocols. Aircraft mechanics must remain current on the latest industry practices and technologies in order to maintain their certification. They must also have excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Working as an aircraft mechanic can be both physically and mentally demanding, as the job requires long hours and a great deal of concentration to ensure that aircraft are safe and operate properly. However, it can also be a highly rewarding career, providing individuals with the satisfaction of knowing they have helped keep passengers safe while in the air.

Becoming an airline mechanic is a great way to enter the exciting world of aviation. There is high demand for qualified mechanics and the job comes with a lot of responsibility. Plus, it can be pretty exciting too! If you’re thinking of becoming an airline mechanic, make sure you do your research first.

Completing an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school is the first step, followed by passing the FAA Aircraft Maintenance Technician knowledge test. Finally, you will need to receive your FAA Airframe and Powerplant certificates by passing both a written and practical exam. Good luck!