If you stumbled across this blog, you may have found yourself asking “What exactly is an A&P mechanic and what do they do?” Thankfully, you have come to the right place for answers. Continue reading to find out what a job as a certified A&P mechanic may entail.
Mechanics with their A&P certifications have options other than working on aircraft, at a flight school, or for an airline.
A&P mechanics can also work on maintaining rides and attractions at amusement parks!
In the world of aircraft, A&P stands for Airframe and Powerplant. Now that you know what A&P stands for, you may still be confused as to why it is essential. Certified A&P mechanics, also known as Aviation Maintenance Technicians, or AMTs, play an important role in the aviation world. They are the individuals who work on the external (airframe) and engine (powerplant) parts of an aircraft to ensure that it meets the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety standards.
Certified A&P mechanics can work at aviation companies or airports, performing on a wide variety of aircraft. Duties include, but are not limited to:
- Scheduled or unexpected tests and performative checks on aircraft
- Scheduled or unexpected maintenance and repairs on aircraft
- Aircraft inspections on the external frame and internal engine
- Accurate documentation and reports of all findings and test results
- Service aircraft to meet FAA regulations.
Mechanics with their A&P certifications have options other than working on aircraft, at a flight school, or for an airline. A&P mechanics can also work on maintaining rides and attractions at amusement parks! Amusement parks look forward to hiring people with their A&P certification as the mechanisms on rollercoasters and other amusement park rides have the same basic systems that apply to aircraft.
To become a certified AMT, you must complete secondary technical education. After graduating you will have to take the FAA test to become a certified Airframe and Powerplant Technician for employment in aviation maintenance.
Whether your passion is to work with or on an aircraft, or you just love working with your hands, becoming a certified A&P mechanic could be the best fit for you. Visit our aviation programs page for more information about Aviation Institute of Maintenance program offerings and class schedules.
About Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) is a network of aviation maintenance schools with campuses coast-to-coast in the United States and headquarters in Virginia Beach, Va. AIM students are trained to meet the increasing global demand of commercial, cargo, corporate, and private aviation employers. AIM graduates are eligible to take the Federal Aviation Administration exams necessary to obtain their mechanic’s certificate with ratings in both Airframe and Powerplant. AIM’s campuses are in the following major metro areas: Atlanta, Charlotte, New York, Philadelphia, Dallas, Houston, Indianapolis, Las Vegas, Washington, D.C., Kansas City, San Francisco Bay, Orlando, and Norfolk. Learn more at www.AviationMaintenance.edu or like them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AIM.edu
Frequently Asked Questions
What does A&P stand for in aviation?
A&P stands for Airframe and Powerplant, referring to the aircraft’s structure and engines. Certified A&P mechanics are trained to inspect and repair both systems to meet FAA safety standards.
What does an A&P mechanic do?
A&P mechanics maintain and repair aircraft, perform safety checks, and document their work. They ensure all systems meet FAA regulations and keep aircraft flight-ready.
Where can A&P-certified mechanics work?
A&P mechanics can work at airlines, airports, flight schools, and even amusement parks. Their skills apply anywhere complex mechanical systems need maintenance.
How do you become an A&P mechanic?
You must complete an FAA-approved technical program and pass certification exams for both airframe and powerplant systems to become an A&P-certified mechanic.
Why is A&P certification important in aviation?
It ensures mechanics are qualified to maintain aircraft safely and legally. Without certification, they can’t perform or sign off on essential maintenance tasks.
