Mechanic Training

Aviation 

Think semis and sedans are for sissies? If you want a mechanics career with some real reach, consider becoming an aviation mechanic. Job competition is tough among major airlines though, and some mechanics still learn on the job…

Aircraft mechanics have an incredibly important job: they ensure that planes carrying millions of passengers all over the world are 100% safe to fly. In order to stay abreast of new technologies and cost-cutting measures, aviation mechanics must keep their career training up-to-date at all times.

This critical job may pay very well; the median income for aircraft mechanics, according to the BLS, was about $47,700 in 2006.

The schools below all offer top-notch aviation mechanic programs:

An aircraft mechanic school will train you how to perform all required inspections and maintenance of aircraft engines, landing gear, instruments, accessories and other systems.

You will also be trained in how to capture and use diagnostic data from the electronic boxes and consoles that track a plane’s central or basic functions – especially on larger, more complex planes.

In addition, you will learn how to properly maintain all service records related to maintenance performed on each aircraft, and to proactively diagnose problems in order to save costs and enforce safety regulations.

Airplane mechanic career

Benefits of Airplane Repair Training

Competition can be stiff for jobs in airplane repair. The major airlines tend to pay better and offer travel benefits, which means they attract the most candidates.

How can you improve your chances of gaining one of these coveted positions? No matter what you are interested in, it will help enormously to attend one of the 170 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certified schools.

Along with learning general skills required of airplane repair mechanics, such as performing scheduled maintenance and FAA inspection guidelines, you can choose to specialize in certain areas–either a type of aircraft like jets or an individual part of an aircraft like the engine or electrical system. In general, employers prefer to hire mechanics able to perform a variety of tasks.

Although they’re not mandatory, degrees from colleges can give you an edge. Courses in mathematics, computer science, electronics, and mechanical drawing are the most useful.

Job Prospects

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Opportunities for aircraft and avionic equipment mechanics…should be excellent for those who have completed aircraft mechanic training programs.” The FAA requires at least 18 months of work experience and training; however, completion of a certified airplane repair course can substitute for that requirement.

Technology advances rapidly, meaning all those working in airplane repair need to remain up-to-date with ongoing developments. Attending colleges or earning degrees related to airplane repair can give you the training you need.

Vocational schools give you hands-on experience with all of the sophisticated equipment involved in airplane repairs, giving you a greater range of job prospects and the potential for a higher starting salary as well.

Aviation Mechanic Salary

In aviation mechanics, size does matter. The size of an aircraft or the airline, that is. In general, the bigger the craft serviced the higher an aviation mechanic’s salary. Company size and amount of hiring also impact take-home pay.

Without an airframe and power plant (A&P) license, aviation mechanics make considerably less and may need to search relentlessly for employment. Keep in mind, there are specialized areas within the field that increase the opportunity for advancement and pay grade.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that an aviation mechanic’s salary was $53,280 in 2010. By the year 2018, the employment of aircraft mechanics and service technicians should rise 6 percent.

• Avionics technician is the highest growth occupation in aviation mechanics. Avionics technicians repair and maintain components used for aircraft navigation and radio communications, weather radar systems, and other instruments. In May 2010, avionic technicians earned a mean salary of $52,050 per year. The BLS expects an 11 percent rise in employment by 2018.

An airline mechanic’s salary is dependent also on work location, level of experience and licenses held. According to Avjobs.com, an employee with experience who is A&P; certified earns a salary of $73,000 per year.

According to the BLS, these five states paid the highest aviation mechanic salary:

1. Tennessee
2. Indiana
3. Kentucky
4. Connecticut
5. New Jersey

The U.S. Government employs approximately 100,000 civilian aviation mechanics and avionics technicians to work on military aircraft at bases around the world. Most military aviation mechanics complete the FAA training program, although some earn credit for education received while in the service.

 ** Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-07 Edition, Aircraft, and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians. 

Airplane Mechanic Schools

Coast to coast, there are almost 170 airplane mechanic schools certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Approximately one-third of these schools award two-year and four-year degrees in avionics, aviation technology, or aviation maintenance management.

These programs prepare you for oral, written, and practical hands-on certification examinations. In aircraft mechanic school, you will learn to inspect, diagnose and repair aircraft components including engines, brakes, landing gear, and propellers.

To become an airplane mechanic there are four fundamentals:

1. Complete high school
2. Find an FAA-accredited school
3. Complete a certificate program
4. Continue with your education

High school courses focused on math, physics, electronics, computer science, chemistry, and mechanical drawing prepare you for courses while attending airplane mechanic school. The FAA requires that students log a minimum of 1,900 hours of class time, so training lasts approximately 18 to 24 months.

The FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certification is required to maintain and repair anything from small aircraft to jet airplanes.

Most military aviation mechanics complete the FAA training program, and some earn college credit for education received while in the armed services. Becoming an airplane mechanic can also give you an opportunity to travel. The U.S. Government employs approximately 100,000 civilian aviation mechanics and avionics technicians to work on military aircraft at bases around the world.

Keep up with technology and training for advancement in your mechanic career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, avionics technicians trained to work with complex aircraft systems should find the best job prospects. Employment is expected to increase by 7 percent through 2018 for mechanics, while the BLS projects avionic technicians should see 11 percent job sector growth.

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Attention! This article is for informational purposes ONLY and is NOT a replacement for professional advice in any way! It is possible that schools updated their information, and you should ALWAYS contact them before making a decision. Course listings are subject to change.

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