4 answers
Amanda
Student
Crane, IN
1
Question
Updated
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What is the best educanton for an aviation maintenance technician?
I am planning on a career in aviation repair and maintenance.
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4 answers
Wayne Johnson
Maintenance Programs, FAA Part 121
102
Answers
Auburn, Washington
Updated
Wayne’s Answer
Amanda, There are 2 ways to get your aircraft Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics Ratings (A&P License).
1. You can attend a FAA Approved Maintenance Technician's School. These are usually 24 months long.
2. If you can get 30 months practical experience , you take both the Airframe and Powerplant test at the same time.
If you take the airframe or powerplant test and then wait to take the other test, then you will need 18 months experience for each test (total of 36 months experience).
If you go the practical experience route (OJT) then the military is the easiest choice to get your experience.
3. You did not mention what grade you are in. When I started teaching the A&P Classes it was with high school students. They would get into the program in their junior year of high school. At the end of their senior year they would be qualified to take the airframe mechanics test. Then they would only need to attend another 3 (10 week) quarters to get their powerplant license.
They would get high school credits and college credits and the high school paid for the classes.
Your school counselor should be able to give you some direction.
4. If you can find a job as a mechanics "helper" with an airline of fixed base operator (FBO) and slowly work you way to performing maintenance on the aircraft. When I was the Director of Maintenance for a small commuter airline we had about 6 mechanics acquire the time to take the test for their A&P license.
5. Things to remember:
A. If you decide to go the On the Job Training (OJT) route the most important thing is to document all of your training, since you will need to present this to the FAA. Only the FAA can authorize you to take the Mechanics Test.
B. If you go to an A&P school, make sure it is certified by the FAA.
Best wishes on your journey
Wayne
1. You can attend a FAA Approved Maintenance Technician's School. These are usually 24 months long.
2. If you can get 30 months practical experience , you take both the Airframe and Powerplant test at the same time.
If you take the airframe or powerplant test and then wait to take the other test, then you will need 18 months experience for each test (total of 36 months experience).
If you go the practical experience route (OJT) then the military is the easiest choice to get your experience.
3. You did not mention what grade you are in. When I started teaching the A&P Classes it was with high school students. They would get into the program in their junior year of high school. At the end of their senior year they would be qualified to take the airframe mechanics test. Then they would only need to attend another 3 (10 week) quarters to get their powerplant license.
They would get high school credits and college credits and the high school paid for the classes.
Your school counselor should be able to give you some direction.
4. If you can find a job as a mechanics "helper" with an airline of fixed base operator (FBO) and slowly work you way to performing maintenance on the aircraft. When I was the Director of Maintenance for a small commuter airline we had about 6 mechanics acquire the time to take the test for their A&P license.
5. Things to remember:
A. If you decide to go the On the Job Training (OJT) route the most important thing is to document all of your training, since you will need to present this to the FAA. Only the FAA can authorize you to take the Mechanics Test.
B. If you go to an A&P school, make sure it is certified by the FAA.
Best wishes on your journey
Wayne
Arush Anand
Associate Architect
20
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Arush’s Answer
Hi Amanda,
That’s a solid choice—you’re looking at a career where skilled hands and technical knowledge are always in demand. Aviation Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) are the backbone of air safety, and it’s a field with global opportunities.
Here’s a clear guide for you:
1. Core Pathways in Aviation Maintenance
To work legally as an Aviation Maintenance Technician, you generally need to complete approved training + licensing. The “best” education depends on where you plan to work.
In the U.S. → FAA requires certification as an Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Technician.
You can go to an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) (usually 18–24 months).
Or gain hands-on experience in the military / airlines and then sit for the exams.
In India → You need to complete an Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) course approved by DGCA.
Duration: 2–4 years (includes theory + practical training).
After course completion, you appear for DGCA exams to become a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (LAME).
In Europe → EASA Part-147 approved schools are required. You work towards a Category B1 (mechanical) or Category B2 (avionics) license.
2. Best Educational Routes
Diploma / Degree in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) – Practical focus, helps in getting licenses.
Bachelor’s in Aeronautical or Aerospace Engineering – More theory, but can also lead to AME license exams if combined with practical training.
Military Training – Many people join Air Force / Navy for hands-on experience, then transition to civil aviation.
3. Skills That Will Set You Apart
Besides the formal license, focus on:
Mechanical & Electrical systems (hydraulics, turbines, avionics).
Problem-solving & troubleshooting.
Digital tools & diagnostics – Many modern aircraft use computer-based systems.
Attention to detail & safety-first mindset.
4. Career Path
Student → Trainee Technician (on small aircraft / during practical training).
Junior AMT → Licensed AMT (A&P / DGCA / EASA certified).
With experience → Lead Technician, Inspector, Maintenance Manager, or Airline Safety Engineer.
Some even transition into aerospace manufacturing companies (Airbus, Boeing, HAL).
5. Future Growth
The aviation industry is growing fast, especially in Asia and the Middle East.
By 2040, Boeing estimates the world will need 600,000+ new aviation technicians.
Salaries grow significantly with license + experience.
If you’re in India: The best start is enrolling in a DGCA-approved AME college (make sure it’s reputable, because there are many low-quality ones). After passing DGCA exams and completing on-job training, you’ll become a Licensed AME.
If you’re open to abroad: FAA A&P (USA) or EASA B1/B2 (Europe) licenses are globally recognized and open up higher-paying jobs worldwide.
Regards,
Arush
That’s a solid choice—you’re looking at a career where skilled hands and technical knowledge are always in demand. Aviation Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) are the backbone of air safety, and it’s a field with global opportunities.
Here’s a clear guide for you:
1. Core Pathways in Aviation Maintenance
To work legally as an Aviation Maintenance Technician, you generally need to complete approved training + licensing. The “best” education depends on where you plan to work.
In the U.S. → FAA requires certification as an Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) Technician.
You can go to an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS) (usually 18–24 months).
Or gain hands-on experience in the military / airlines and then sit for the exams.
In India → You need to complete an Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) course approved by DGCA.
Duration: 2–4 years (includes theory + practical training).
After course completion, you appear for DGCA exams to become a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (LAME).
In Europe → EASA Part-147 approved schools are required. You work towards a Category B1 (mechanical) or Category B2 (avionics) license.
2. Best Educational Routes
Diploma / Degree in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) – Practical focus, helps in getting licenses.
Bachelor’s in Aeronautical or Aerospace Engineering – More theory, but can also lead to AME license exams if combined with practical training.
Military Training – Many people join Air Force / Navy for hands-on experience, then transition to civil aviation.
3. Skills That Will Set You Apart
Besides the formal license, focus on:
Mechanical & Electrical systems (hydraulics, turbines, avionics).
Problem-solving & troubleshooting.
Digital tools & diagnostics – Many modern aircraft use computer-based systems.
Attention to detail & safety-first mindset.
4. Career Path
Student → Trainee Technician (on small aircraft / during practical training).
Junior AMT → Licensed AMT (A&P / DGCA / EASA certified).
With experience → Lead Technician, Inspector, Maintenance Manager, or Airline Safety Engineer.
Some even transition into aerospace manufacturing companies (Airbus, Boeing, HAL).
5. Future Growth
The aviation industry is growing fast, especially in Asia and the Middle East.
By 2040, Boeing estimates the world will need 600,000+ new aviation technicians.
Salaries grow significantly with license + experience.
If you’re in India: The best start is enrolling in a DGCA-approved AME college (make sure it’s reputable, because there are many low-quality ones). After passing DGCA exams and completing on-job training, you’ll become a Licensed AME.
If you’re open to abroad: FAA A&P (USA) or EASA B1/B2 (Europe) licenses are globally recognized and open up higher-paying jobs worldwide.
Regards,
Arush
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Amanda,
Start by earning a high school diploma. Many people then join FAA-approved aviation maintenance programs to learn about aviation rules, aircraft systems, and maintenance. Next, get an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate from the FAA. This certification is essential for working in aircraft maintenance.
To succeed, you need strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to use various tools. Keeping up with new technology in the field is also important.
You can begin as a Line Maintenance Technician (Category A), where you'll do routine checks, fix minor problems, and replace simple parts. This role usually requires a basic understanding of aircraft systems and an A&P certification.
You can then advance to an Advanced Line Maintenance Technician (Category B1/B2), where you'll handle more complex tasks and take on more responsibility. This often requires extra certifications.
With experience, you can move into specialized or managerial roles. These positions might involve supervising maintenance operations or focusing on areas like avionics or structural repair. Management roles include coordinating teams and ensuring safety compliance.
Consider the U.S. Air Force as a top organization for pursuing this career path.
Start by earning a high school diploma. Many people then join FAA-approved aviation maintenance programs to learn about aviation rules, aircraft systems, and maintenance. Next, get an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate from the FAA. This certification is essential for working in aircraft maintenance.
To succeed, you need strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to use various tools. Keeping up with new technology in the field is also important.
You can begin as a Line Maintenance Technician (Category A), where you'll do routine checks, fix minor problems, and replace simple parts. This role usually requires a basic understanding of aircraft systems and an A&P certification.
You can then advance to an Advanced Line Maintenance Technician (Category B1/B2), where you'll handle more complex tasks and take on more responsibility. This often requires extra certifications.
With experience, you can move into specialized or managerial roles. These positions might involve supervising maintenance operations or focusing on areas like avionics or structural repair. Management roles include coordinating teams and ensuring safety compliance.
Consider the U.S. Air Force as a top organization for pursuing this career path.
Glen R Fullerton, PMP CPIM ICBB
Sr Project Manager, Lean Six Sigma, IT Consultant
2
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Glen R’s Answer
Gaining practical experience is incredibly valuable, especially if you're interested in working with airplanes. One exciting way to explore this field is by joining the military, where you can get hands-on experience and see if it's the right fit for you. The Air Force, Navy, Marines, and even the Army offer opportunities to work on aircraft, including helicopters.
Technical colleges are another great option, providing hands-on training in a more controlled environment. They often cost less than a four-year university and can help you find a job after graduation. However, they might not offer the daily, real-world experience you’d get in the military or an aerospace company.
While joining the military might seem daunting, it offers many benefits, like education support, a steady paycheck, vacation time, and medical coverage. It’s a life-changing experience that can really set you up for a successful career.
If you're considering a four-year university, it could be a good path if you're interested in designing airplanes or engineering. But without practical experience, starting as a mechanic could be challenging. Remember to think about what kind of experience and education will best help you reach your goals.
Technical colleges are another great option, providing hands-on training in a more controlled environment. They often cost less than a four-year university and can help you find a job after graduation. However, they might not offer the daily, real-world experience you’d get in the military or an aerospace company.
While joining the military might seem daunting, it offers many benefits, like education support, a steady paycheck, vacation time, and medical coverage. It’s a life-changing experience that can really set you up for a successful career.
If you're considering a four-year university, it could be a good path if you're interested in designing airplanes or engineering. But without practical experience, starting as a mechanic could be challenging. Remember to think about what kind of experience and education will best help you reach your goals.