The aviation maintenance industry is a dynamic field offering exciting career opportunities for those with the right training and certifications. If you’re wondering how to become an aircraft mechanic or how long it takes to enter this profession, you’re in the right place.
This blog will guide you through the essential steps, from meeting eligibility requirements to completing job training and earning FAA certification. Whether you’re a high school graduate or seeking a career change, this roadmap will help you take flight in the aviation industry.
Step 1: Meeting the Eligibility Requirements
If you’re concerned about qualifying to work as an aircraft, you’ll be happy to learn that the eligibility standards for entering aviation maintenance are straightforward compared to some fields. Still, there are a few concerns that could potentially disqualify you or obstacles you may need to overcome before you enter the field (or even pursue training). Before you enroll in an aviation maintenance program, be sure you qualify based on your educational background and strict FAA criteria.1
Educational Background
From an educational perspective, there are distinct eligibility standards for entering an aviation maintenance program and for eventually getting certified. Aviation maintenance training programs are open to applicants with high school diplomas or equivalent, which is most easily verified by sending an official transcript. Some people move into aviation maintenance after getting degrees in other areas, but additional, aviation-specific training is highly recommended.
FAA Eligibility Criteria
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) maintains strict standards for who is allowed to seek the appropriate certifications to work in aviation maintenance.2 At minimum, aircraft mechanics must be:
- At least 18 years old.
- Proficient in the English language (including reading, writing and speaking).
- Familiar with Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), especially Part 65, Subpart D.
Depending on your preferred pathway, you may eventually need to provide proof of work experience (either 18 or 30 months, depending on the type of training) or evidence that you have completed a relevant training program. Options include an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) or a military-focused Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council (JSAMTCC) training course. We will explore the AMTS pathway in more detail below:
Step 2: Completing Aviation Maintenance Training
What is One of the most reliable options when learning how to become an aircraft mechanic? Completing targeted coursework under the guidance of an FAA-approved maintenance technician certification program. This is where you’ll explore foundational concepts, including essentials such as navigation systems, pneumatic systems, fuel metering and more. FAA standards are also covered in depth.
Also important is putting this newfound knowledge into action. Hands-on learning experiences help you develop tangible skills and much-needed precision. The right program will make this field’s steep learning curve seem much more manageable and could also make you far more credible as a mechanic.
Hands-On Training
Hands-on training is a crucial part of preparing to become an aircraft mechanic. Yes, theoretical concepts matter, but they are difficult to understand unless they are actively practiced fully. It takes a certain level of physical precision to perform checks or repairs using specialized tools such as borescopes or torque wrenches.
Trade school programs can be helpful because they offer the chance to practice these essentials in a lower-stakes (and highly supportive) environment. This inspires confidence, with each project or experience offering valuable preparation for real-world challenges.
Choosing the Right Program
Finding the right program begins with learning about faculty members and curricula. These details can help you determine whether your preferred program will help you prepare for certification exams. Beyond this, it is vital to enroll in an FAA-approved program. This ensures maximum credibility and will give you greater confidence as you take the next step in your career.
Step 3: Earning Your FAA Certification
You’ve completed all the essential coursework and enjoyed many hands-on learning opportunities. At this point, you should feel confident about your future as an aircraft mechanic, but there are still a few obstacles to overcome. Chief among these? Earning your Airframe and Power Plant (A&P) Mechanics license.3
As the FAA points out, the A&P license actually consists of two distinct ratings: the Airframe (A) and the Powerplant (P). The Airframe section reveals what you know about the structural components of the aircraft, while the Powerplant portion emphasizes engines and fuel systems. Both are important and, as such, it’s best to seek the strategic combination known as the A&P.
Certification Process
The A&P certification process involves multiple tests, which aim to verify both aircraft knowledge and tangible skills.4 These challenging tests involve a few main categories:
- Knowledge. Be prepared to take three rigorous knowledge tests, which must be completed before you can move on to oral or practical exams. Be prepared to answer 100 questions each when completing the Airframe and Aviation Powerplant knowledge tests, plus an additional 60 questions for the general knowledge test. These exams cover a wide range of topics, including everything from engine theory to hydraulic systems and many other concepts you’ll have ideally explored through your aviation maintenance training program.
- Oral. Although covering similar concepts as the written knowledge test, the oral exam provides a whole new set of challenges: thinking under pressure so that you can confidently answer on-the-spot questions. A Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME) will administer this test, which emphasizes verbal skills while revealing how much you know about aircraft systems or maintenance procedures. Sample tests can help you prepare, especially if you complete mock tests with fellow students.5
- Practical. Like the oral test, the A&P’s practical exam is administered by an approved DME. However, this goes beyond simply answering questions. This is your chance to show that you can successfully perform critical maintenance and repair tasks.
Benefits of Certification
A&P certification plays a huge role in determining your employability within the aviation maintenance field. Employers strongly prefer to hire certified mechanics because this provides instant insight into aviation knowledge and hands-on skills.6
This certification is worth pursuing because it can help you level up as an aircraft mechanic. The very process of preparing to take A&P exams encourages you to hone your skills and expand your knowledge. Once you have passed these exams, you should feel confident in your abilities.
Step 4: How Long Does It Take to Become an Aircraft Mechanic?
If you are eager to enter the exciting field of aviation maintenance, you’re in luck, as the journey to becoming an aircraft mechanic might not take as long as you may expect. A lot depends on how you train for this career, although FAA-approved training programs are recommended due to their credibility and comprehensive coursework.
Program Duration
A quick overview of your program’s curriculum can go a long way toward helping you determine, how long does it take to become an aircraft mechanic? Many programs involve a minimum of 60 credit hours, although this can vary.7 It is possible to earn a Aviation Maintenance Technology Certificate of Completion at SJVC in as few as 14 months. Keep in mind that once you complete this certificate, you may need to dedicate extra time to studying to ensure that you pass all required FAA requirements.
Factors That Impact Timing
There is no one ‘correct’ way to navigate aviation maintenance training. A lot depends on your previous experience (or lack thereof) and your current schedule. If you can commit to full-time coursework, you’ll find it easier to finish your program in under two years. Part-time options are available, but this may extend your training timeline. If you attempt to qualify for the A&P based on practical experience, you’ll need at least 18 verifiable months of experience, but could potentially require a full 30 months to be deemed eligible.
Step 5: Starting Your Career in Aviation Maintenance
Equipped with an Aviation Maintenance Technology Certificate of Completion and your A&P license, you should be ready to embark on an exciting job search. At this point, you will be thrilled to discover many excellent opportunities. Be mindful of your long-term goals as you look for the ideal entry-level position. Continue to focus on professional development so you can rise through the ranks and achieve your most ambitious career goals.
Entry-Level Opportunities
The typical aviation maintenance career path starts with entry-level roles as Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians, which may be available after earning an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license. These professionals are responsible for diagnosing mechanical or electrical problems, repairing aircraft systems, and performing scheduled maintenance. With experience and additional certifications, mechanics can take on more complex tasks and work with minimal supervision. Accurate recordkeeping is also a key part of the job to ensure compliance with FAA regulations.
Growth Potential in the Industry
Aviation maintenance is a vast field that may offer exciting opportunities for growth within the field. Some of these involve specialization, with mechanics often focusing on specific types of aircraft or systems. An example could include helicopter maintenance.
Additionally, aircraft mechanics can offer valuable guidance and support by moving into senior or management roles. For instance, aircraft maintenance managers may focus on specific maintenance or repair projects.8 This may involve assigning technicians to specific tasks based on their abilities and experience, with many management roles focused on boosting efficiency and quality control.
Work With SJVC to Get a Strong Start in the Aviation Maintenance Industry
Getting your start in the aviation maintenance industry is a step-by-step process that begins with the right education and training. With FAA certification and hands-on experience, you can unlock a rewarding career as an aircraft mechanic in an exciting field. Ready to take the first step? Explore SJVC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program to prepare for your career today.
Sources:
1. Federal Aviation Administration. “Become an Aviation Mechanic.” https://www.faa.gov/mechanics/become
2. Federal Aviation Administration. “Aircraft Mechanic Oral, Practical, & Written Tests.” https://www.faa.gov/mechanics/become/test_requirements
3. Peterson, C. “What Does It Take to Become an A&P?” FLYING Magazine. https://www.flyingmag.com/what-does-it-take-to-become-an-ap/
4. Thorburn, L. “How to Get an Airframe and Powerplant Mechanic (A&P) License.” Indeed. https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/a-and-p-license
5. Federal Aviation Administration. “Sample Test: Oral and Practical.” https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/Sample%20Test%20Oral%20and%20Practical%20FAQ.pdf
6. Memon, O. “What Qualifications Do Aircraft Mechanics & Engineers Require?” Simple Flying. https://simpleflying.com/aircraft-mechanics-engineers-qualifications-guide/
7. Indeed. “FAQ: How Long Is Aircraft Mechanic School and How Soon Can I Become One?” https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/how-long-is-aircraft-mechanic-school
8. ZipRecruiter. “What Is an Aircraft Maintenance Manager and How to Become One.” https://www.ziprecruiter.com/career/Aircraft-Maintenance-Manager/What-Is-How-to-Become
