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Aircraft Mechanic

Aircraft Mechanics inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft, including jets, helicopters, and airplanes. They may specialize in a particular area, such as hydraulics, avionics, or propulsion systems. Aircraft Mechanics use hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment to perform their work.

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Aircraft Mechanics inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft, including jets, helicopters, and airplanes. They may specialize in a particular area, such as hydraulics, avionics, or propulsion systems. Aircraft Mechanics use hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment to perform their work.

Job Duties

Aircraft Mechanics perform a variety of tasks, including:

  • Inspecting aircraft for damage or wear
  • Performing scheduled maintenance checks
  • Repairing aircraft components
  • Overhauling aircraft engines
  • Replacing parts
  • Troubleshooting electrical and mechanical systems
  • Working with engineers and other technicians to resolve complex problems

Aircraft Mechanics must be able to read and understand technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics. They must also be able to work independently and as part of a team.

Education and Training

Most Aircraft Mechanics complete a formal training program. Programs typically take two years to complete and include coursework in aircraft maintenance, repair, and inspection. Some programs also offer certification in specific areas, such as avionics or propulsion systems.

In addition to formal training, Aircraft Mechanics must also have experience working on aircraft. This experience can be gained through an apprenticeship program or by working as a helper to a more experienced mechanic.

Licensing and Certification

Aircraft Mechanics must be licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). To obtain a license, Mechanics must pass a written exam and a practical test. Mechanics must also complete continuing education courses to maintain their license.

Career Advancement

Aircraft Mechanics can advance to positions such as Lead Mechanic, Supervisor, or Manager. With additional education and training, Mechanics can also become engineers or inspectors.

Skills

Aircraft Mechanics must have strong mechanical skills and be able to work independently and as part of a team. They must also be able to read and understand technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics. Additionally, Mechanics must be able to work safely and efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

Personality Traits

Aircraft Mechanics typically have the following personality traits:

  • Attention to detail
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Teamwork skills
  • Communication skills

Projects

Aircraft Mechanics may work on a variety of projects, including:

  • Inspecting aircraft for damage or wear
  • Performing scheduled maintenance checks
  • Repairing aircraft components
  • Overhauling aircraft engines
  • Replacing parts
  • Troubleshooting electrical and mechanical systems
  • Working with engineers and other technicians to resolve complex problems

Personal Growth Opportunities

Aircraft Mechanics can gain personal growth opportunities by:

  • Taking on new challenges
  • Learning new skills
  • Working on complex projects
  • Mentoring other Mechanics
  • Becoming involved in professional organizations

Self-Guided Projects

Students can complete a variety of self-guided projects to better prepare themselves for a career as an Aircraft Mechanic. These projects include:

  • Building model airplanes
  • Taking apart and reassembling small engines
  • Reading about aircraft maintenance and repair
  • Volunteering at a local airport or aviation museum
  • Shadowing an experienced Aircraft Mechanic

Online Courses

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn about aircraft maintenance and repair. Online courses can provide students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own time. Additionally, online courses can be a more affordable option than traditional classroom-based programs.

Online courses can teach students the following skills and knowledge:

  • Aircraft maintenance and repair procedures
  • Aircraft systems
  • Aircraft inspections
  • Aircraft troubleshooting
  • Aircraft safety

Online courses can also provide students with the opportunity to interact with other students and instructors through discussion boards and online forums.

Conclusion

Aircraft Mechanics play a vital role in the aviation industry. They ensure that aircraft are safe and airworthy. Aircraft Mechanics must have strong mechanical skills, be able to work independently and as part of a team, and be able to read and understand technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics.

Online courses can be a helpful way to learn about aircraft maintenance and repair. Online courses can provide students with the flexibility to learn at their own pace and on their own time. Additionally, online courses can be a more affordable option than traditional classroom-based programs.

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Salaries for Aircraft Mechanic

City
Median
New York
$74,000
San Francisco
$103,000
Seattle
$60,000
See all salaries
City
Median
New York
$74,000
San Francisco
$103,000
Seattle
$60,000
Austin
$86,000
Toronto
$50,000
London
£42,000
Paris
€44,000
Berlin
€65,000
Tel Aviv
₪472,000
Singapore
S$50,000
Beijing
¥12,000
Shanghai
¥140,000
Shenzhen
¥727,000
Bengalaru
₹323,000
Delhi
₹275,000
Bars indicate relevance. All salaries presented are estimates. Completion of this course does not guarantee or imply job placement or career outcomes.

Path to Aircraft Mechanic

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We've curated nine courses to help you on your path to Aircraft Mechanic. Use these to develop your skills, build background knowledge, and put what you learn to practice.
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This official publication from the FAA provides a comprehensive compilation of aviation regulations. It covers topics such as aircraft certification, pilot licensing, and airspace regulations. The FAA Legal Team ensures that the information is up-to-date and accurate, making it an essential resource for anyone involved in aviation.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of aircraft engineering, covering topics such as aerodynamics, structures, and propulsion. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in aircraft design.
Provides a comprehensive overview of commercial aviation safety, covering topics such as risk assessment, accident investigation, and human factors. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in aviation safety.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of aircraft structures, covering topics such as materials, design, and analysis. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in aircraft design or structural analysis.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of flight, covering topics such as aerodynamics, propulsion, and flight control. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in aviation or aerospace engineering.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of aerospace engineering, covering topics such as aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and propulsion. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in aerospace engineering.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of aircraft design, covering topics such as aerodynamics, structures, and propulsion. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in aircraft design.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of jet engines, covering topics such as thermodynamics, aerodynamics, and design. It is written by the leading manufacturer of jet engines and is essential reading for anyone interested in aircraft propulsion.
This textbook delves into the design, analysis, and operation of aircraft. It provides a broad understanding of aircraft engineering, covering topics such as aerodynamics, structures, and propulsion. The authors, all renowned experts in their field, offer a comprehensive treatment of the subject.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of airline marketing and management, covering topics such as pricing, distribution, and customer service. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in airline marketing or management.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of aviation maintenance management, covering topics such as maintenance planning, scheduling, and quality control. The author, a leading expert in aviation maintenance, presents a practical and hands-on approach to the subject.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the aircraft systems, covering topics such as hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical systems. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in aircraft design or maintenance.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of avionics, covering topics such as navigation, communication, and flight control. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in avionics.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the operations and management of airlines, covering topics such as scheduling, pricing, and customer service. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in airline management.
This comprehensive history book provides a detailed account of the development of aviation from its earliest beginnings to the present day. The author, a renowned aerospace engineer, presents a fascinating and informative narrative that is accessible to both aviation enthusiasts and historians alike.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles of aviation maintenance management, covering topics such as planning, scheduling, and quality control. It is written by a leading expert in the field and is essential reading for anyone interested in aviation maintenance.
This introductory textbook provides a broad overview of aerospace engineering, covering topics such as aerodynamics, structures, and propulsion. The author, a leading expert in aerospace engineering, presents a clear and concise explanation of the subject.
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