Aircraft Mechanics

Career summary

Aircraft mechanics are also known as airframe and powerplant technicians, avionics technicians, or aviation maintenance technicians.

#from wois 3116 Aircraft Mechanics

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Aircraft mechanics perform routine inspections, maintenance, and repairs. Aircraft is inspected by mechanics after having flown a certain number of hours, days, cycles of operation, or a combination of all of these factors.

Aircraft mechanics usually specialize in maintenance or repair.

Maintenance mechanics

Maintenance mechanics inspect engines, landing gear, instruments, pressurized sections, and accessories. They grease moving parts or replace fluids. They use precision instruments to measure parts for wear. When they find worn parts, mechanics replace or repair them.

Repair mechanics

Repair mechanics specialize in repair not inspection. They use maintenance manuals to find out how to repair damaged parts. They use equipment such as hoists to lift engines from the body of the aircraft. Mechanics may assemble, adjust, and install new systems, such as electronics or plumbing.

Mechanics run tests to make sure the systems or parts are working properly after repairs.

Mechanics may specialize in one, or many types of aircraft. These include:

• Jets
• Propeller-driven airplanes
• Helicopters

Mechanics in small repair shops usually work on many types of aircraft. In larger shops they are more likely to specialize.

Workers who specialize in repairs to electronic systems such as radio communications and flight instruments are called avionics technicians.

Related careers

This career is part of the Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Airplane Assemblers
• Airplane Pilots
• Automobile Mechanics
• Computer, ATM, and Office Machine Repairers
• Electricians
• Elevator Installers and Repairers
• Engineering Technicians
• Heavy Equipment Mechanics
• Industrial Electronics Repairers
• Industrial Machinery Mechanics
• Manufacturing Production Technicians
• Structural Metal Workers
• Transportation Inspectors
• Welders and Solderers

Military careers

• Aircraft Mechanics
• Avionics Technicians

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to aircraft mechanics.

• Read and assess work orders or blueprints to learn what needs to be done.
• Take apart engine and locate problem.
• Examine and inspect engine for wear or defects. May listen to engine running to identify problem.
• Test engine by attaching various test equipment.
• Consult aircraft maintenance manual to decide whether to repair or replace parts.
• Adjust, repair, or replace parts using tools.
• Remove engine or defective parts from aircraft.
• Inspect completed work to make sure it meets standards.
• Assemble and install parts.
• Maintain systems in good working order.
• Interpret flight test data to diagnose problems.
• Maintain repair logs. Document all maintenance.
• Go on flights to make adjustments and corrections in-flight.

Common work activities

Aircraft mechanics perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Get information needed to do the job
• Document and record information
• Evaluate information against standards
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Use computers
• Repair and maintain electronic equipment
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
• Control machines and processes
• Handle and move objects
• Teach others
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Process information
• Analyze data or information
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Operate vehicles or mechanized equipment
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Provide information or drawings about devices, equipment, or structures
• Think creatively
• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Coordinate the work and activities of others
• Coach others
• Provide advice and consultation to others
• Develop goals and strategies
• Schedule work and activities
• Develop and build teams
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, aircraft mechanics:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a medium level of contact with people.
• Communicate daily by talking to others in person. They also talk on the phone and occasionally use e-mail.
• Usually work as part of a team of mechanics.
• Are responsible for maintaining safety standards of aircraft.
• Are somewhat responsible for the health and safety of other workers and airplane passengers.

Physical work conditions

• Are often exposed to hazardous equipment. There is some possibility of moderate injury from the equipment.
• Regularly wear protective gear, such as gloves or ear muffs.
• Are exposed to noise and vibrations when testing engines on a weekly basis.
• Mostly work in hangars or in other indoor areas. They may work outdoors, sometimes in hot or cold weather.
• Are exposed to contaminants on a weekly basis.
• Are sometimes exposed to hazardous conditions, such as when standing on scaffolding.
• Are sometimes exposed to hazardous situations. There is some possibility that they could get cut or burned. However, the degree of injury would be slight.
• Are occasionally exposed to cramped work places that require getting into awkward positions.
• May work close to others, such as within a few feet.

Work performance

• Must be sure that all the details of the job are performed and completed accurately. Errors could cause serious harm to the plane or the passengers.
• Repeat the same physical and mental tasks.
• Regularly make decisions that affect coworkers, their employer, and passengers.
• Often make decisions without consulting someone else first. For complex tasks, they may consult with others.
• Can set most of their tasks and goals without checking with a superior first.
• Work in a moderately competitive atmosphere where daily and weekly deadlines must be met.

Hours/travel

• Frequently work more than 40 hours a week because overtime is common.
• May work evenings or nights because shifts are scheduled around the clock.
• Usually work a set schedule.

Physical demands

Aircraft mechanics frequently:

• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
• Stand for long periods of time.

It is important for aircraft mechanics to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for aircraft mechanics to be able to:

• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Keep or regain the body's balance or stay upright when in an unstable position.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.

Skills and abilities

Aircraft mechanics need to:

Communicate

• Understand written information.
• Understand spoken information.
• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.
• Listen to others and ask questions.

Reason and problem solve

• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Recognize when important changes happen or are likely to happen in a system.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.
• Manage the time of self and others.

Work with people

• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.

Work with things

• Repair machines or systems.
• Maintain equipment on a routine basis. Determine when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
• Determine the causes of technical problems and find solutions for them.
• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.
• Determine the tools and equipment needed to do a job.

Perceive and visualize

• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.
• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Aviation Maintenance Technology

Other programs of study to consider

• Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering Technology
• Agricultural Technologies
• Composite Technology
• Electrical and Electronics Equipment Installation and Repair
• Industrial Mechanics
• Private Pilot

Training

To work as an aircraft mechanic, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• complete formal FAA-certified training;
• have work experience; and
• pass written and oral exams.

Education after high school

Most aircraft mechanics learn their skills at a professional-technical school. Training programs last two or four years and you earn an associate or bachelor's degree. In school you learn about turbine engines and aviation electronics. You also learn to use tools and equipment. To become a certified mechanic, you must study at a school certified by the FAA.

Work experience

The FAA requires 18 months of work experience before you can become a certified aircraft mechanic. For an airframe and power plant (A & P) certificate, you need 30 months of work experience. You can sometimes substitute a degree from a training program for work experience.

On-the-job training

A few aircraft mechanics are trained on the job by experienced mechanics. Training may take two years or more. Mechanics who enter the job with some experience will go through less on-the-job training.

Military training

The military trains people to be aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians. Training lasts three to 17 weeks for aircraft mechanics. For avionics technicians training lasts 18 to 25 weeks. Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses.

The time you spend in the military as an aircraft mechanic may give you enough work experience to satisfy the requirements for FAA certification. However, military training is specialized. Thus, many military-trained mechanics complete a full training course at a professional-technical school to become certified.

Helpful high school courses

In high school, take classes that prepare you for college. A college preparatory curriculum may be different from your state's graduation requirements.

You should also consider taking some advanced courses in high school. This includes Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they are available in your school. If you do well in these courses, you may receive college credit for them. Advanced courses can also strengthen your college application.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Blueprint Reading
• Computer Applications
• Diesel Mechanics and Repair
• Electronics
• Introduction to Mechanics

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Most airlines require that mechanics have a high school diploma or equivalent. They also look for applicants with an airframe and powerplant (A & P) mechanic certificate. Additionally, employers prefer mechanics who can perform a variety of tasks. Mechanics who gain experience in the military and are certified are very attractive to employers.

Employers prefer to hire applicants who are self-motivated, hard working, and enthusiastic. They also look for mechanics who are able to diagnose and solve complex mechanical problems. Aircraft mechanics also must be very agile. For example, they may need to reach and climb onto the plane's wing to do a job.

Tips

Read all manuals concerning aircraft maintenance. Visit general aviation, airport, or airline shops. Changes in technology are creating the need for an understanding of new metals and techniques being used. Knowledge of advanced composite materials repair is helpful. Additional training in heavy aircraft and auxiliary systems is a plus.

Electronics knowledge is important. Courses in digital controlled machines, aircraft system computer troubleshooting, mechanical systems, and turbine and fan turbine engines are helpful. Willingness to relocate may improve your chances, especially if you are seeking higher wages. If you're in high school, learn the skills and knowledge required for mechanical work and the use of hand tools.

Costs to workers

Aircraft mechanics must purchase their own tools. The cost of the tools varies depending on the employment setting, but a basic set averages $2,000. Special tools such as rivet guns and drills are usually supplied by the employer. Some workers may be required to join a union and pay a one-time initiation fee and monthly dues. Workers who are licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration must pay an exam fee.

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Licensing/certification

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certifies all aircraft mechanics. For an airframe (A), powerplant (P), or repairer (R) license, the FAA requires graduation from an FAA-approved school or at least 18 months of work experience.

For a combined license (A & P), the FAA requires graduation from an FAA-approved school or at least 30 months of experience working with both engines and airframes.

Applicants for any of these certificates must:

• pass a written exam;
• pass an oral exam; and
• pass a practical exam where applicants demonstrate their skills.

For more information about becoming certified as an aircraft mechanic, contact:

Federal Aviation Administration 
 

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians 
• Avionics Technicians 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

Wages for aircraft mechanics vary by specialty. Pay also varies by employer. For example, mechanics who work on jets for the major airlines earn more than other mechanics.

Mechanics work all shifts and often work overtime. Employers pay mechanics extra for working shifts that are not during regular work times.

Mechanics who work full time usually receive benefits. Benefits usually include health insurance, paid vacation, and a retirement plan. Airline mechanics also receive travel discounts for themselves and their family members.

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Most aircraft mechanics work at major airports near large cities. Both civilian and military mechanics work on military bases. Large numbers of mechanics work for aircraft manufacturers in California and Washington. Mechanics who work for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) generally work in one of three cities. These cities are Oklahoma City, Atlantic City, or Washington, DC. Mechanics who work for independent repair shops work at airports throughout the nation.

Major employers:

• National and regional airlines
• Airports, flying fields, and aircraft servicers
• Federal government agencies

National outlook

Demand for this occupation is growing slowly. As air traffic increases additional aircraft maintenance will be required. However, it is expected that some airlines will outsource maintenance work to other countries. People with skills in the latest technologies and A&P certifications will have better job opportunities.

Competition for new jobs in aircraft mechanics will remain strong. Some job openings will occur as current mechanics retire.

Other resources

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association 
421 Aviation Way
Frederick, MD 21701
800.872.2672
301.695.2000

Airlines for America 
1275 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 1300
Washington, DC 20004
202.626.4000

Electronics Technicians Association, International 
5 Depot Street
Greencastle, IN 46135
800.288.3824
765.653.8262

Engineer Girl! 
National Academy of Engineering

Federal Aviation Administration 
800 Independence Avenue SW
Washington, DC 20591
866.835.5322

Professional Aviation Maintenance Association 
PO Box 163
Jenks OK 74037
877.901.5410

References

Career cluster

• Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupations

• Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians (49-3011.00) 
• Avionics Technicians (49-2091.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

DOT occupations

• Aircraft Body Repairer (807.261-010) 
• Aircraft Mechanic, Electrical and Radio (825.381-010) 
• Airframe-and-power-plant Mechanic (621.281-014) 
• Airframe-and-power-plant-mechanic Apprentice (621.281-018) 
• Bonded Structures Repairer (807.381-014) 
• Electrician, Aircraft (825.261-018) 
• Experimental Aircraft Mechanic (621.261-022) 
• Experimental-rocket-sled Mechanic (825.281-038) 
• In-flight Refueling System Repairer (829.281-018) 
• Rocket-engine-component Mechanic (621.281-030) 

Holland occupational clusters

• Realistic/Conventional/Investigative
• Realistic/Investigative/Conventional

COPSystem

• Technology Skilled