Mechanics who hold an Airframe and Powerplant certificate have more of a chance at landing a position in the aviation field than those who don’t.
The world of aircraft maintenance is an expanding field to consider for your future career. There are countless opportunities for those equipped with the proper knowledge and their Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification. Listed below are a few facts about the field of aircraft maintenance:
- Choose a part 147 school that is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
- You can earn certificates of completion, an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree concentrating in aircraft maintenance.
- Upon graduating from an FAA approved school, you are qualified to take the FAA certification exam.
- Practice makes perfect. It is a strength to be detailed-oriented as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT). Double checking yourself and meeting strict deadlines helps to lower downtime in flight schedules and ensures the safety of the flight crew, passengers and AMTs.
- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage for aircraft mechanics and technicians in 2016 was $61,190.00 per year or an hourly pay of $29.42.
- To operate properly and at their best, aircraft require reliable parts and examination. Mechanics use precision instruments, like x-rays, magnetic or ultrasonic equipment, to find problematic areas. If detected, AMTs assess the wear and tear on the aircraft in order to make the proper repairs.
- The FAA has specific federal regulations requiring every aircraft to have a set schedule for maintenance, repairs and inspections, guaranteeing it is in the safest condition possible.
- An Airframe and Powerplant certification enables AMTS to inspect, perform or supervise maintenance of commercial and private aircraft systems.
- Mechanics who hold an Airframe and Powerplant certificate have more of a chance at landing a position in the aviation field than those who don’t.
- The typical “office” for aviation mechanic is a hangars, repair station or airfield.
- Mechanic’s hours are usually full time with need for overtime and weekend shifts.
- Get experience under your belt to help you advance to lead mechanic, lead inspector or shop supervisor.
- In 2016, the number of airplane departures was approximately 90 million. It’s estimated to double by 2020.
If you would like to join the aircraft mechanics field, a great way to start is by checking out Aviation Institute of Maintenance’s Aircraft Maintenance and Mechanics Training Programs.