Aviation Maintenance Technology

Overview

Programs in aviation maintenance technology prepare people to repair and maintain airplanes and helicopters.

Programs in aviation maintenance technology teach people to repair and maintain airplanes and helicopter operating systems. Students learn to repair and maintain engines. They also learn how to service ignition systems and electronic instruments. They learn to build and repair frames and fittings.

Aviation maintenance technology programs include topics such as:

Engine inspection and repair
Aircraft electronics
Fuel and fuel systems
Propeller and fan assemblies
Flight instrumentation
Aircraft communications and homing systems
Radar and other sensory systems

Concentrations

In aviation maintenance technology programs, students may be able to specialize in:

Airframe mechanics and aircraft maintenance technology
Aircraft powerplant technology
Avionics maintenance technology

Schools

Many community colleges and technical schools offer certificate and associate degree programs in aviation maintenance technology. A certificate program usually takes six months to one year of full-time study. An associate degree program at a community college usually takes two years of full-time study to complete.

Several colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degrees in aviation and maintenance technology. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

Proprietary schools, colleges, and universities all offer this program. If you want to study at a proprietary school, you can prepare for this program of study by completing your high school diploma or getting a GED. If you want to study at a college or university, you can prepare for this program by taking the following courses: four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Algebra
Computer Science and Programming
Principles of Technology
Technical Writing

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

A certificate program for both airframe and powerplant typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Aircraft Drawing
Aircraft Electrical Systems
Aircraft Materials and Their Inspection
Aircraft Structures: Nonmetallic
Aircraft Structures: Sheet Metal
Basic Electricity
Engine Cooling, Lubrication, and Inspection
Engine Fuel Metering Systems
Engine Ignition Systems
Engine Induction and Exhaust Systems
Federal Regulations, Records, and Publications
Gas Turbine Engines: Installation, Operation, Overhaul
Instrument, Control, and Warning Systems
Landing Gear, Hydraulic, and Pneumatic Systems
Propeller Systems
Reciprocating Engines: Installation, Operation, Overhaul
Technical Mathematics

A certificate program in avionics technology typically includes courses in the following subjects:

AC Circuits
Airframe and Engine Systems Interfacing
College Algebra
Communication and Navigation Basic Circuits
DC Circuits
Digital Applications
Introduction to Avionics
Navigation Systems
Operational Testing of Aircraft Electronic Systems

Things to Know

To become a licensed aviation maintenance technician, students need to complete a training program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Most approved programs lead to an associate or bachelor's degree.

With experience and authorization from the FAA, you can work as an inspector.

If you want to work in avionics, it helps to get a general radiotelephone operator license issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). You need to pass an exam to get it.

Some employers will pay for classes required by the FAA to maintain certification.