What Does an Aircraft Mechanic Do?

Students who want to be aircraft mechanics must attend an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school. These skills can also be learned on the job or through military training in aviation maintenance, which is recognized by the FAA.

Aircraft mechanics must have 30 months of experience working on aircraft to qualify for their airframe and powerplant (A&P) certificate, which is required to work independently. (Airframe covers non-engine related mechanical, structural and skin-related components of aircraft maintenance; powerplant covers engine work.) About 18 months are needed to get either an A or P certification. Many mechanics get both certifications. Either path requires passing written exams, oral exams and practical exams. (You must pass three knowledge tests for the written exam. For more information about testing and handbooks, see the FAA requirements tab.)

On-the-job training must be through an FAA Certified Repair Station under the direct supervision of a certified mechanic. Supervision continues until the mechanic is certified.

Avionics technicians typically earn an associate degree.

Students must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent and speak, write and read English fluently to get started.

As with other skilled jobs, maintaining certification is important for aircraft mechanics. Within a two-year time period, mechanics must complete relevant repair or maintenance work. That may include classes through an employer or an aircraft manufacturer.

Aircraft mechanics who have had their A&P certificate for at least three years can apply for Inspection Authorization (IA), which allows them to review and approve major aircraft repairs.

At least 30 months of experience is needed to qualify for the certifications mentioned above. Another way to earn those hours is completion of a Part 147 FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school program, which takes about 18 months.

Yes. Jobs for aircraft mechanics and avionic technicians are expected to grow 11% from 2020 to 2030. That works out to about 14,000 openings per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Aircraft mechanics are one of SkillPointe's 24 highest-paying skilled jobs that don't require a bachelor's degree — meaning there is plenty of opportunity in this career.

Aircraft mechanic jobs are in more places than you might think. They work in aircraft hangers, airfields and repair stations. Certified mechanics are needed by airlines, airplane manufacturers, repair stations, general aviation, aviation teaching institutions, businesses with private fleets and fixed-base operators — the commercial operations that have permission to operate and provide services at an airport.

Students who would excel at this career tend to have these qualities:

• Detail-oriented
• Good hand-eye coordination
• Excellent troubleshooting skills
• Physically strong enough to lift heavy equipment
• Good dexterity and excel in the use of hand tools and power tools
• Good balance to work on ladders or scaffolding