A Detailed Guide How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic

One of the lucrative career paths for those looking for a position with lots of room for growth and long-term learning potential is becoming an aviation mechanic. The proper and safe operation of aircraft and other flying machinery is largely dependent on aircraft mechanics. Getting the necessary training, credentials, and experience to work as an aircraft mechanic is a demanding job that can lead to a fulfilling and secure career. Continue reading to find out what an aviation mechanic does, how to train yourself to become one, and how to obtain credentials to get paid more.

Who is Aircraft Mechanic 

A specialist who works on maintaining and repairing aircraft systems and components is known as an aircraft mechanic. They employ hand and power tools to fix parts, check and diagnose issues, and make sure aviation safety rules are being followed. Troubleshooting, meticulousness, and manual dexterity are among the necessary talents.

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What Does an A&P Mechanic Do?

An aircraft mechanic is involved in the maintenance and repair services of aircraft and helicopters. Moreover, an aircraft mechanic ensures that all the mechanical components of the plane meet the safety requirements. Some other terms used to describe aircraft mechanics are aviation maintenance technicians and aircraft maintenance technicians. The work of an aircraft mechanic includes:

• Inspecting aircraft systems and finding operational issues
• They are also responsible for interpreting manuals cleaning and repairing the flying machines 
• The aircraft mechanic also documents the maintenance activities and updates the same 

Roles and Responsibilities 

Here is a list of the roles and responsibilities of aircraft mechanics. 

• An aircraft’s exterior and interior components are closely examined during an inspection. To find possible issues and make sure an aircraft is prepared for flying, airplane mechanics do routine checks.
• An essential component of an aviation mechanic’s work is conducting tests to identify the root cause of an issue. They are capable of diagnosing all aircraft components, including the engines, safety tools, electrical systems, and other elements.
• Aircraft mechanics study instructional materials and blueprints to gain knowledge about specific vehicles and equipment. They use instructional manuals to locate parts of aircraft, troubleshoot issues effectively, and place the proper kind of part orders.
• By cleaning their aircraft’s exterior and interior on a regular basis, aircraft mechanics enhance ongoing upkeep. To maintain the aircraft in optimal condition and avoid damaging rusting, corrosion, or chemical accumulation, they clean the mechanical parts.

5 Steps to Become an Aircraft Mechanic

There are several ways to pursue a career as an aviation mechanic, such as going to school or obtaining certifications via job experience. Your prerequisites for becoming an aviation mechanic are outlined in these steps:

Step 1: Earn an Education

A high school degree is one of the prerequisites for working as an aircraft mechanic. Get your high school diploma or begin your apprenticeship as an aircraft mechanic. If at all feasible, think about enrolling in elective courses linked to the field of aircraft mechanics. You can build solid educational foundations for becoming an aircraft mechanic by enrolling in courses covering math, physics, engineering, and construction. 

Step 2: Decide on a Speciality

Make up your mind on the type of aircraft mechanic you want to be before you begin building your technical credentials. Airframe mechanics and powerplant mechanics are the two subspecialties in which aircraft mechanics can specialize within the FAA. While powerplant aircraft mechanics work on building, maintaining, and repairing aircraft engines and fuel systems, airframe aircraft mechanics concentrate on the general structure of the aircraft and its interfacing systems. You may choose to obtain certification in one or both fields.

Step 3: Select Your Course of Study

Being an aviation mechanic does not require a college degree, however, the majority of training programs involve at least 18 months of technical instruction at an FAA-approved aircraft maintenance technician school (AMTS). To finish an aviation mechanic program, one must complete coursework on systems, practical training, and passing exams. There are bachelor’s and associate’s degree programs that can help you get more work and make more money. 

Step 4: Gain Experience/ Complete OJT 

Some GED holders and high school graduates who work as aircraft mechanics prefer to acquire experience through apprenticeship programs and on-the-job training. There are entry-level positions for aviation mechanics that don’t require any experience. This enables you to learn from seasoned airplane mechanics while carrying out standard maintenance, inspecting systems, and gaining experience. To succeed in an entry-level position, one must possess the following abilities: communication, attention to detail, and the capacity to adhere to precise, intricate, and complicated instructions.

Step 5: Obtain an FAA certification.

To become certified by the FAA, you must be at least eighteen years old, have thirty or more months of experience with airframes and powerplants, and have outstanding oral and written English communication skills. You must also attend an FAA-approved AMTS. To obtain your A&P Certification, you must additionally pass the necessary written, oral, and practical exams within 24 months. 

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Skills Required

Enhancing your abilities in several crucial domains can aid in getting ready for a profession in airplane maintenance. The top abilities of airplane mechanics include the following:

• A strong background in technology and the capacity to interpret and comprehend technical data.
• Strong focus abilities.
• Must be detail-oriented.
• A deep feeling of accountability.
• Effective communication abilities to clarify flaws to others.
• The capacity to work precisely and swiftly.
• Physical well-being.

Pros & Cons of Being an Aircraft Mechanic

There are both positives and negatives to every career and it is nothing to shy off from sharing. Hence, here are the pros and cons of being an Aircraft Mechanic. 

Pros 

• The aviation sector is anticipated to increase until 2030. 
• Subsequently, the average annual salary for aircraft mechanics is $85,000.
• You will acquire specific expertise.
• Earn various certifications while you are in your training. 
• You also get to test and renew abilities on a regular basis.

Cons 

• These are mostly physically taxing jobs.
• Moreover, living close to big cities could be necessary.
• Situations that move quickly and under strain can also arise.
• And lastly, regular research is necessary for complex systems and engines.

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FAQs 

This was all the information about how to become an aircraft mechanic. If you also want to explore such a profession and want to know more about the course that will help you become a professional aircraft mechanic, contact Leverage Edu call us at 1800 57-2000.