How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic
What is an aircraft mechanic? If you’re the kind of person who has their eye on the sky, or you’ve ever wondered how aircraft stay in the air, working in aviation maintenance may be a path to consider.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to become an aircraft mechanic, what the role involves, and about the potential aircraft mechanic benefits.
If you’re exploring training options, learn more about SJVC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program to help you decide if it’s the right next step for you.
What is Aviation Maintenance?
Aviation maintenance is the inspection, repair, and servicing of aircraft to ensure they remain safe and airworthy for flight. (1)
It includes routine checks, diagnosing mechanical or electrical issues, replacing or repairing components, and completing required inspections based on safety regulations. (1)
What do aircraft mechanics do? In day-to-day work, this often includes: (2)
- Inspecting aircraft systems and components
- Diagnosing and repairing mechanical or electrical issues
- Replacing parts such as engines, brakes, or avionics systems
- Performing scheduled maintenance based on flight hours or time intervals
- Reviewing aircraft performance data to identify potential problems
In the United States, aviation maintenance standards are regulated by the FAA, with maintenance schedules guided by federal regulations, manufacturers, and operators. (1)
What Does an Aircraft Mechanic Do?
The day-to-day responsibilities of an aircraft mechanic include diagnosing both mechanical and electrical problems, repairing parts of an aircraft including wings, brakes and various systems (electrical, brake, etc), hydraulics, pneumatics, avionics, and replacing broken or defective parts.
Aircraft mechanics may also be called aviation maintenance technicians (AMTs) or, informally, aircraft technicians. An aviation maintenance technician tests aircraft parts and reviews manuals to identify the best procedures for repair. Once maintenance is completed, they test the work and the parts to make sure they are performing correctly. Aircraft mechanics are responsible for keeping detailed records of performed maintenance on an aircraft. (2)
Aircraft Mechanic Jobs
Aircraft mechanic jobs can vary by specialization, work environment, and level of certification. Some mechanics focus on specific aircraft types, such as helicopters, or specialize in systems like engines, hydraulics, or electrical components.
Types of aircraft mechanic roles:
Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanics
A&P mechanics are certified to work on most parts of an aircraft, including the airframe and engine. They perform routine maintenance, repairs, and inspections using specialized diagnostic tools. (1) Their work also includes documenting maintenance and testing systems to confirm safety standards are met.
Inspection Authorization (IA) Mechanics
Inspection authorization (IA) mechanics are experienced A&P mechanics authorized by the FAA to perform and approve major repairs and annual inspections. (1)
Work Environments and Responsibilities
Aircraft mechanics commonly work near airports, in hangars, repair stations, or manufacturing facilities. (3) Some positions support government or military operations, including roles with the United States Armed Forces.
Work environments may be indoors or outdoors, and schedules can include evenings, weekends, or overtime depending on operational needs. (3)
How to Become an A&P Mechanic or Aircraft Mechanic
Becoming a certified aircraft mechanic typically involves completing training, gaining hands-on experience, and passing exams required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). (1)
Common Steps to Get Started
- Complete FAA-approved training (often 12–24 months) (1)
Enroll in an Aviation Maintenance Technology program approved by the FAA to learn core skills in airframe and powerplant systems. - Gain hands-on experience (1)
Build practical experience through your training program or by working in an aviation maintenance environment. - Pass FAA required exams (1)
Qualify to receive the Aviation Mechanic certificate with Airframe and Powerplant ratings by passing written, oral, and practical exams that assess your knowledge and skills. - Apply for entry-level roles
Once you have your A&P license, you can pursue entry-level positions as an aircraft mechanic or technician in settings like airports, repair stations, or manufacturing facilities.
Why Become an Aircraft Mechanic?
Aircraft mechanics play an important role in maintaining aircraft safety and performance. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for aircraft mechanics is supported by ongoing maintenance needs and the need to replace workers who leave the occupation. (3)
Benefits of Being an Aircraft Mechanic
If you like working on complex projects and have an interest in aircraft, being an aircraft mechanic can be a rewarding career. You may work in hangars, repair stations or airfields. (3) Since many mechanics work near an airport, they may in some cases get flight benefits. Many of these jobs offer benefits and opportunities to work overtime.
Are Aircraft Mechanics in Demand?
Aircraft mechanics continue to be needed to help keep aircraft safe, maintained, and ready for operation. Ongoing air travel activity and the need to maintain aircraft contribute to steady demand for trained technicians. (3)
Additionally, workforce turnover creates ongoing opportunities for new technicians entering the field. (3)
What to Look for in Aircraft Maintenance School
Aircraft mechanic training programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on experience to help students build practical skills. (1)
What to look for:
Hands-on training: Look for programs that include real-world practice working on aircraft systems. Hands-on experience can help reinforce what you learn in the classroom and prepare you for technical tasks on the job.
Instructor experience: Instructors with industry backgrounds can provide practical insight and guidance. You may also have opportunities to ask questions, seek mentorship, or learn about additional ways to build experience.
FAA approval: Make sure the program is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician Schools (AMTS) follow established standards designed to prepare students for certification.
Cost and financial considerations: Compare program costs and explore financial aid options that may be available to those who qualify, such as grants, scholarships, or other funding sources.
Trade School vs Other Education Pathways for Aviation Maintenance
There are multiple paths to start a career in aviation maintenance. The right option depends on your goals, timeline, and preferred learning style. The comparison below outlines key differences between trade school, traditional college, and military training.
| Pathway | Time Commitment | Learning Style | Cost Considerations | Career Entry Timeline | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trade School (FAA-approved AMTS) | Often as few as 12–24 months | Hands-on training + focused technical instruction | Typically lower overall cost than a four-year degree | Faster path to entry-level roles after training and certification | Prepares for FAA certification (1) |
| College Degree (Aviation or Related Field) | Typically 2–4 years | More academic | Generally higher cost due to longer duration | May take longer before entering the workforce | May include broader coursework beyond hands-on maintenance skills |
| Military Training | Varies by branch and commitment | Structured, hands-on training in real-world environments | Training provided in exchange for service commitment | Timeline depends on length of service | Requires enlistment; may need additional steps for civilian certification requirements. |
What Will I Learn in SJVC’s program: Aircraft Maintenance Classes
SJVC’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program offers aircraft-specific classes including general safety and specifics about aircraft systems and parts including engines, turbines, propellers and basic electronics. See the catalog for more details.
Do I Need to Be Certified to Be an Aircraft Mechanic?
Yes, most aircraft mechanics need an A&P license to perform and approve certain types of maintenance work. In the United States, all mechanic and aviation maintenance certificates are issued by the Federal Aviation Administration. (1)
The most common credential is the Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate, commonly called an A&P license. The A&P certification allows mechanics to work on aircraft systems after completing training or experience and passing required exams (1). While some entry-level roles may be available without certification, many employers prefer or require A&P certification for broader responsibilities and advancement.
To learn more about how certification works and what it involves, visit Understanding FAA Certifications.
How Do I Get an A&P Certification?
To earn an A&P certificate (also called an A&P license), you must meet eligibility requirements and pass written, oral, and practical exams administered by the FAA. (1)
Steps to Earn an A&P Certification
- Complete FAA-approved training or gain qualifying experience
You can attend an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technology program or document relevant hands-on experience working on aircraft systems. - Meet FAA eligibility requirements
This includes age, language, and experience or training qualifications set by the FAA. - Pass required exams
Candidates must successfully complete written, oral, and practical exams that assess knowledge and technical ability in airframe and powerplant systems. - Receive your certificate
After passing all required exams, you can earn your A&P certificate and begin applying for roles that require this credential.
For a deeper breakdown of the testing process and what to expect, visit Everything to Know About the A&P License Test.
Prepare for a Career in Aircraft Maintenance With SJVC
Training can be an important step toward working in aviation maintenance. At San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC), the Aviation Maintenance Technology program is designed to help students build foundational knowledge and hands-on skills used in the field.
Learn more about San Joaquin Valley College’s Aviation Maintenance Technology program and request information to see if it’s the right fit for you.
Aircraft Mechanic FAQs
How long is an Aviation Maintenance Technology program at SJVC?
Program length can vary, but aviation maintenance technology programs are often designed to be completed in as few as 12–24 months. At San Joaquin Valley College (SJVC), the Aviation Maintenance Technology certificate program can be completed in as few as 14 months.
These programs typically combine classroom instruction with hands-on training to help students build technical skills in aircraft systems and maintenance.
How long does it take to become an aircraft mechanic?
Most aircraft mechanic training programs can be completed in about 12–24 months, followed by certification requirements (1). This typically includes completing an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technology program and preparing for certification exams required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
References
- Federal Aviation Administration. “Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook & Certification Requirements.”
https://www.faa.gov/mechanics - O*NET OnLine. “Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians.” https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/49-3011.00
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Occupational Outlook Handbook.” https://www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/aircraft-and-avionics-equipment-mechanics-and-technicians.htm
Sources:
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