Get Your Degree!

Get information on programs from our featured schools.

Aircraft Mechanic Defined

Aircraft mechanic and maintenance professionals are trained to properly maintain and repair avionics equipment and mechanical structures required to safely operate aircraft vehicles and helicopters.  Professionals in this trade will routinely inspect, maintain, and repair vital elements of an aircraft (mechanical, electrical, and structural).  Trained aircraft mechanics will leverage computer diagnostic tools recommended by the FAA coupled with manual inspections to assess each aircraft on a set schedule or as needed.

An aircraft mechanic and maintenance degree program prepares individuals for entry into the workforce to work on airplanes, either on the body or engines, maintaining performance, and repairing problems as they arise under strict timetables as established by the employer.  Individuals will work under the supervision of professionals with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), certification until such time that they complete the requirements for personal certification.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$61,190

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

39.43%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

128,570

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Aircraft Mechanic Schools

Lewis University is located in Romeoville, Illinois with the aim to provide practical and goal-oriented education for its nearly 7,000 graduate and undergraduate students as well as adult learners. It is also recognized for providing programs in diverse areas of study including business, technology, nursing, computer science, psychology, finance, and more.  It also offers various programs concentrating in Aviation Technology wherein students can obtain associate, certificate, and bachelor’s degree. It has a curriculum that expands the knowledge and skills of students in powerplant rating, airframe rating, operation of flights, aircraft mechanic, aircraft marketing, and aircraft maintenance. Graduates of this program are able to find employment within months after graduation while some continued their education in graduate schools. 

Acceptance Rate

63.9

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Located in Chicago, Illinois, Moody Bible University has a mission to train students to become leaders in the industry through their traditional and transformative education. It was founded in 1886 to help people become committed to declaring the Word of God while also educating them about their fields of interest.  The university also trains students to become a missionary and an aviation mechanic at the same time through its undergraduate degree program in aviation technology. Students enrolled in the program will be given a chance to participate in mentorship provided by highly skilled faculty members wherein they will learn about the necessary maintenance skills needed for a successful career. Upon the last term of training, students will also gain additional knowledge in helicopter maintenance, aircraft inspections, and avionics installation among others. 

Acceptance Rate

94.41

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

MIAT College of Technology has been providing quality education in technology and sciences since 1969. It offers students with career-focused education while helping them earn real-world skills that are essential for their careers.  The college is also widely recognized for offering technical training in aircraft mechanics that provides students with hands-on instructions about the aviation industry. With faculty members who are dedicated to educate and guide students, the program will develop their technical skills in power plant operations, wind energy, industrial machinery, heating, refrigeration, air-condition, and ventilation. After completing the program requirements, students will receive associate degrees and certificates. 

Acceptance Rate

83.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

The mission of Kansas State University is to encourage students to engage and embrace the culture of the community through its educational, training, and research programs. It also aims to provide the local community of Kansas with a better quality of life.  Aviation Maintenance Management degree is one of the programs offered by the university wherein students can get a bachelor’s or associate degree and certificates upon completing the program requirements. It has a 11,000 square feet ground for students of the program to practice their skills and gain hands-on experience in working on real aircraft. Students will learn troubleshooting, analytical skills, aircraft systems, technical skills, and more. 

Acceptance Rate

95.37

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Siena Heights University started operating in 1919 to provide excellent education and research for the local community of Adrian, Michigan. It offers programs in different areas of study including criminal justice, nursing, business, technology, and more.  One of the most recognized programs offered by the university is the Airframe Maintenance Technology that can be completed within 120 credit hours. It also offers students the opportunity to choose a flexible class schedule such as evening, online, and weekend. Students will also have 15 hours of work experience through the university’s internship programs. 

Acceptance Rate

73.4

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Hallmark University – Technology Campus is known for offering outstanding programs in cybersecurity, nursing, information technology, aviation maintenance, and business. It was founded in 1969 with the aim to serve the local communities of San Antonio, Texas with high-quality career education and training opportunities.  The university’s college of aeronautics has outlined various degree programs related to aircraft maintenance including undergraduate degrees in airframe technology, aviation maintenance management, powerplant technology, and more. Students enrolled in the aviation programs can be completed in 20 months wherein they can learn a wide range of skills and knowledge in the aviation industry. Graduates of the program can have a career as aircraft manufacturing leaders, technicians, managers, or specialists.

Acceptance Rate

78.53

Tuition

$38,320 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

25:1

Located in Durant, Oklahoma, Southeastern Oklahoma State University serves nearly 5,000 students each year. It was founded in 1909 with the aim to provide the people around the area with high quality education.  It has an Aviation Science Institute that provides students with flight and aviation training. Throughout the program, students will be mentored by professionals in the industry as they study about the latest technology and information in aircraft mechanics and aviation management. In addition, students will also learn about the safety, production, operations, maintenance management, business, and security. 

Acceptance Rate

73.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

The University of Alaska Fairbanks offers programs that are recognized by national organizations and commissions, allowing them to provide outstanding curriculum in various fields of study. It began operating in 1917 and today, it currently serves more than 8,000 students on its campus in Fairbanks, Alaska.  The Aviation Maintenance program of the university has a purpose to provide students with an opportunity to become experts in the field. It has a small class size that allows students to get equal attention from the faculty and instructors all throughout the 12-month period program. The students will be taught inside and outside the classroom from Monday to Friday as they learn to become a trained, licensed aircraft mechanic.

Acceptance Rate

75.99

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Known as the largest institution in Alaska, the University of Alaska Anchorage aims to transform the lives of the people through research, community engagement, teaching, and creative expression in an inclusive and diverse environment. It serves more than 15,000 students yearly on its 387-acre campus area.  It has developed an undergraduate certificate program that concentrates in aviation technology emphasizing powerplant and aircraft mechanics. The 2-year program allows students to participate in hands-on laboratory work through the university’s state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Aside from the certificate program, students can also enroll in an associate degree in the field. 

Acceptance Rate

82.96

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Redstone College was established in 1928 and is now known as Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology. It offers courses focusing on quality control, aircraft maintenance, aviation, and flight operations on its main campus in Tulsa, Oklahoma.  The institution has developed a program in aviation maintenance technology that covers various areas of study including aircraft instrumentation, aircraft flight controls, landing gear, hydraulics, turbine engine systems, aviation maintenance practices, reciprocating engine systems, and more. Upon completing the program requirements, students can earn a certificate and a degree that are essential to have a rewarding career in the field.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Crimson Technical College is dedicated to providing excellent learning opportunities for students to help them succeed in their chosen fields of interest. It is located in Inglewood, California, and offers courses such as information technology, aeronautics, business, and more.  Students who want to expand their knowledge in airplanes, mechanics, and technology can enroll in the aviation maintenance program offered by the college. Students will learn to maintain, repair, and diagnose various aircraft engines and systems. The program can be taken during the evening and weekends, offering convenience to its adult and working students. Crimson Tech also provides financial aid for eligible students to help defray the cost of earning a degree or certificate. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$41,523 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Aviation Institute of Maintenance – Orlando has a mission to help adult students to gain skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed for a meaningful career position in the aviation industry. It serves the people of Casselberry, Florida, and its surrounding areas through its 2-4 years degree programs.  It offers a 21-month aviation maintenance technician program that is designed to help students excel as an aircraft technician and mechanic by providing them the right skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in the industry. Students will be trained to repair, maintain, and service aircraft systems and components such as piston engines, electrical systems, propellers, environmental systems, turbine engineering, airframe, and more. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

Lorenzo Walker Institute of Technology is committed to providing a relevant and rigorous educational experience that prepares students to become industry professionals. It offers various programs including cosmetology, phlebotomy, nursing, engineering, and more.  One of the most recognizable programs of the university is the aviation powerplant mechanics that offers a wide range of study opportunities for students including commercial and general aviation, aircraft repair, component manufacturer, and fixed based operations. Students who are interested in the aviation mechanics program will go through 480 semester hours before earning a degree in the field. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$5,242 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Aviation Institute of Maintenance in Indianapolis offers excellent courses in maintenance, aviation, technician, and welding fields. It offers high-quality facilities, centers, and laboratories wherein students can learn and practice their skills in various fields.  Students who are enrolled in the Aircraft Mechanics degree program of the institution can participate in academic and real-world training programs with the help of Indianapolis International Airport. Students will study and practice the proper repair and maintenance of various aircraft that attract passionate aviation mechanics around the area to enroll in the institution. Graduates of the program are able to have a rewarding entry-level career in the field. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Wilson Tech is committed to providing students with the essential skills in today’s challenging and competitive industry. It offers undergraduate, certificate, part-time, adult education, and high school tech programs.  Drone and Aircraft Technology is one of the programs developed by the institution with the aim to teach students how to repair, overhaul, and service turbine engines. The program allows students to take training in its classroom inside the Republic Airport. Upon completing the 64-credit hours, graduates of the program can be eligible for a license given by the federal license regulations. Graduates can also choose to continue their studies in a university. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$43,050 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Located inside the Teterboro airport, Teterboro School of Aeronautics is also widely recognized as an Aviation Institute of Maintenance that provides various courses related to aircraft. It houses several laboratories, shops, and classrooms that house the necessary equipment needed for today's aviation industry.  Students who are enrolled in the aircraft maintenance training programs of the institution can choose to obtain a certificate or an associate degree in the field. It has a 21-month program covering topics such as flight controller systems, powerplant, engine systems, and aircraft systems among others. Throughout the program, students will also enhance their communication skills as well as develop their mathematical and science knowledge. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$25,200 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

25:1

Founded in 1961, Linn State Technical College aims to serve the local communities of Missouri and its surrounding areas. Today, it is known as State Technical College that provides career and technical training and education while also providing its students with real-world experiences.  Aircraft maintenance is one of the most famous courses of the academy. It provides unique and hands-on educational learning about airplanes, including helicopters, single-engine airplanes, jets and airplanes. Students will learn through the college’s latest and fully functioning laboratory and airport. In addition, students can also choose to obtain a certificate or a degree in the field depending on what fits their academic needs. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Southwest Technology Center is a small institution located in Altus, Oklahoma that provides technical and business education for its more than 500 students yearly. It has a mission to improve the lives of the local communities around the area.  It offers an Aircraft Maintenance Technology program wherein students are required to attend full-time classes 5 days a week in a span of 18 months. The program accepts high school students and adults who are interested to learn and expand their skills in aviation technology. During the program, students will study and train about various aviation-related tools and equipment including electrical, electronic, pneumatic, and hydraulic. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$3,725 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

As a world-class aviation maintenance and technology school, the National Aviation Academy offers excellent programs focusing on airframe, avionics, and powerplant. It is located in Tampa Bay wherein students can access several laboratories, centers, and classrooms to help expand their educational learning.  Some of its aircraft mechanic degree programs are focusing on maintenance professional, advanced aircraft systems, and aviation maintenance technology. Students who are enrolled in the program will receive high-quality educational training in maintaining various aircrafts including airplanes, jets, helicopters, drone, and more. The program can be completed within 2000 clock hours or 14 months wherein students can get certification for commercial, general, and corporate aviation. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$38,500 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

The Aviation Institute of Maintenance in Houston is a place where students can start their aviation careers and education. The institution has several campuses across the states, all providing the finest aviation technology, mechanic, and operation programs.  It provides students with an undergraduate or certificate degree in Aircraft Mechanics degree that is committed to offering real-world training programs. Through the institution’s laboratories and centers, students can practice and study the proper repair and maintenance of various aircraft to attract aviation mechanics around the area. Upon completion, graduates of the program can earn a rewarding career in the field. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

Located in Virginia, Aviation Institute of Maintenance – Manassas is one of the multiple campuses of the AIM which aims to provide aviation education and training for the people of the states and the world. It houses world-class faculty and instructors who are experts in the field.  It has a 21-month program in aircraft maintenance technician that is designed to help students achieve success as aircraft technicians and mechanics by educating them with the right skills and knowledge needed for an entry-level career in the industry. The program has a curriculum that lets students be trained in repairing, maintaining, and servicing aircraft systems including propellers, piston engines, electrical systems, environmental systems, air conditioning, turbine engineering, and airframe among others.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

National Aviation Academy of New England offers two-year degree programs that concentrate in the aviation industry for its nearly 500 students each year. It provides various student services including counseling assistance, advising, financial aids, and more.  Students who are interested to have a certification in powerplant and airframe can enroll in the aircraft maintenance program of the academy. It is a 21-month program wherein students will receive 3000 clock hours of courses in aircraft systems, general aviation, airframe, turbine management, and powerplant among others. Students will start at the most basic to the more advanced topics as the program moves to another level. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$38,500 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

33:1

Renton Institute of Technology is located in Renton, Washington, and is known for serving thousands of students who are studying various degree programs, including accounting, nursing, law, technicians, aviation, art, etc. It was established in 1942 with the aim to provide specialized training programs for local communities.  Industrial and Aerospace production technology is one of the most famous courses developed by the college. It concentrates on the engineering designs, advanced metrology, production, fabrication, and characteristics of metals used in aircrafts. Students participating in the program will receive a certificate of completion after completing 44 credit hours of the course. 

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Metro Technology Centers provides roughly 100 full-time and part-time programs in technology, business, and more. It is a vocational college located in Ohio that offers a safe and convenient campus environment for its students.  Individuals who are interested to pursue education and training in aircraft mechanics can enroll in Metro Technology Centers wherein they will work alongside professionals in the aviation industry. Students will learn to maintain and repair the engines and systems of helicopters, airplanes, jets, and more. As an aircraft mechanic, graduates of the program will learn to conduct inspection as well as perform engine start-ups in the real-world aviation industry.

Acceptance Rate

-

Tuition

$6,679 / year

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

South Georgia Technical College is known for providing outstanding educational training in the field of technology, business, and aviation. It also offers hands-on training through its state-of-the-art facilities including centers, laboratories, and classrooms.   Aviation Maintenance Technology programs are offered at the college wherein students can choose to enroll in certificate or diploma programs. The program curriculum intends to provide students with various learning opportunities in the field including turbine systems, aircraft powerplant, airframes, and more. Students are required to take 90 semester credit hours that covers courses such as aircraft landing gear systems, airframe welding, gas turbine powerplants, and reciprocating engine powers among others.

Acceptance Rate

-

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Top 5 Skills of an Aircraft Mechanic

For many aviation maintenance professional, there will be a basic set of skills needed regardless of geographic location or company affiliation. Based on a recent survey from the U.S. Department of Labor, an aircraft mechanic will need to be able to:

  1. Carefully examine aircraft systems and components to detect issues.
  2. Understand FAA regulations and inspect aircraft accordingly.
  3. Manage inspection process to ensure aircraft are flight-worthy.
  4. Document and properly track maintenance repair logs.
  5. Process maintenance manuals & timely apply changes or modifications.

Top Aircraft Mechanic & Aircraft Maintenance Training

Not all aviation maintenance programs are the same. In fact, within a particular school you may have several training options to consider. The top aircraft maintenance and aircraft mechanic tracks you may consider include the following as outlined by the aviation institute of maintenance:

  • Maintenance Technician - A degree in maintenance tech prepares students to properly maintain aircraft by introducing a number of key concepts such as: electricity, hydraulics, power systems, surfaces, controls, power systems, transportation structures, and electrical control systems.
  • Aviation Maintenance Technician - The AMT program helps students acquire the requisite knowledge and skills to thrive as an aircraft mechanic or helicopter mechanic. Students will be equipped with the ability to pass the FAA examination and earn a certification in Airframe and Powerplant Tech.
  • Avionics Technician - An avionics tech training program is typically geared towards helping experienced techs advance their careers in vocations such as aviation electronic systems, aircraft electrical systems, system troubleshooting, and aircraft repair.
  • Aviation Maintenance Technical Engineer - AMTE degree programs take a formal approach to learning the technology and mechanics of an aircraft. Disciplines include tracks such as aircraft fabrication, aviation repair, landing gear, instrumentation, turbine engines, pneumatics, piston engines, hydraulics, and sheet metal fabrication.

Aviation Mechanic Training

The job responsibilities associated with the aircraft mechanic role are often interchangeable with an avionics technician, avionics equipment mechanic, aviation maintenance technologist, or an aircraft technician.  All types of aviation tracks help prepare students to maintain, inspect, and repair various types of aircraft.  As you would expect, aircraft mechanics work in and around aircraft in repair stations, hangars, and airfields.

The larger the organization, the more likely mechanics are to specialize in a targeted discipline such as engine repair, pneumatics, or electrical systems.  On the other hand, aircraft mechanics that are employed by smaller companies will typically be asked to perform a wide array of duties and be a jack-of-all-trades.   A jet aircraft mechanic will need to adhere to a regimented maintenance schedule and perform under strict timelines to ensure pre-defined flight times are met.  Aircraft certification can be earned from aviation mechanic schools to obtain an aircraft mechanic certification.  Whether your goal is to become an FAA aviation mechanic or an aviation maintenance airframe specialist, the AMT knowledge tests will help propel your career with additional aviation mechanic training.

Aircraft Mechanic Work Environment

The work environment of an avionics specialist will typically be busy and loud.  Mechanics working on avionic equipment will spend a great deal of time off the ground near the aircraft units.  To perform this task, they will utilize scaffolding and ladders to help access mechanical parts and instrumentation.  Mechanics will need a number of specialized tools in their respective toolboxes that may include: sockets, torque wrench, drive ratchet, wire cutters, wire pliers, picks, punches, hammers, files, mirrors, magnets, SAE spanners, hydraulic jack, channel lock pliers, micrometer, hack saw, and welding equipment.

Aviation Maintenance Technology Degree & Certificate

There are three primary tracks for prospective college students to consider when thinking about a career in aircraft mechanics or aviation maintenance technology: certificate, associate degree, and bachelor’s degree.  Either option has pros and cons to weigh prior to making a final decision and are outlined below for further consideration.  The aviation schools online and flight schools aviation pathways are worthy of serious consideration.

An accredited community college and trade school such as UTI will provide three training paths in aviation maintenance: mechanical systems and engines (abbreviated as “P” for powerplant), structural and airframe systems (designated as “A” for airframe), or both structural and mechanical (denoted by “A&P”).  Powerplant, airframe, and A&P license tracks may be available at select colleges around the nation.

For students asking themselves how to find a top ranked aircraft mechanic school near me, simply request admissions information from colleges listed on this page today.

Aircraft Mechanic Certificate Programs

With new certificate programs being created to meet the ever-evolving demands of the aircraft industry, it is important to reach out to schools directly to get the most current programs and courses.  The following certificate programs are a requirement for every FAA approved AMT college or trade school in the United States.  A sampling of certificate programs at online aviation schools in aviation technology include:

  • Certificate of Completion in Basic Aviation Maintenance Technology
  • Certificate of Achievement in Powerplant Maintenance Technology
  • Certificate of Achievement in Airframe Maintenance Technology
Aircraft Mechanic Associate’s Degree

The associate degree program in aircraft mechanics combines technical avionics courses with general education courses.  The general education courses may include creative writing, philosophy, or history to help students cogently think about the world differently.  On the technical side, an associate’s degree will prepare avionics students with the skills and techniques necessary to understand the various mechanical and structural systems of an aircraft.  A typical set of courses in the associate degree program include: piston and gas-powered engines, physics, basic instrumentation, electrical systems, FAA guidelines, principles of aerodynamics, and materials science.

Aircraft Mechanic Bachelor’s Degree

The bachelor degree program in aircraft mechanics include a similar set of courses found in an associate’s degree program plus additional business courses.  The leadership, management, and business classes are designed to help students understand the role of a mechanic while preparing them for managerial roles in avionics after completing their degree.  In addition to the general education requirements, students in a bachelor’s degree program will take a variety of the following classes: physics, airframe maintenance, propeller design, exhaust systems, powerplant architecture, FAA guidelines, operations management, materials science, systems engineering, and electrical systems.

What are the Different Types of Aircraft?

Aircraft mechanics and aviation maintenance professional will be equipped to work on a variety of aircraft after receiving the proper training and certification(s). The different types of aircraft are listed below to help current and future mechanics establish a working baseline of vessels they may maintain or repair. These could include:

  • Airplane
  • Jet
  • Helicopter
  • Seaplane and Floatplane
  • Glider
  • Trike
  • Airship

Aviation Maintenance Technician Course Requirements

Individuals wishing to enter this field will typically begin their education through a technical school that offers an FAA accredited program that takes between 18 and 24 months to complete. Programs are also available that allow students to pursue a bachelor's degree, which is becoming more common as technological upgrades and improvements to avionics are requiring more inter-disciplinary skill and greater knowledge of how current aircrafts operate. Some programs may remove the typical 30 month experience requirement to pursue certification in part or whole.

A curriculum may include:

  • Aerodynamics
  • Materials
  • Airframe and Structure
  • Instruments and Diagnostics
  • FAA Rules and Regulations
Schools Other Students Requested Information From:

Employment Opportunities and Mechanic Certificate

Individuals in this field will seek employment at airfields, hangars, or any other location where testing, maintenance or repair of aviation equipment is required. Individuals are responsible for the repair and maintenance of planes, ensuring they are flight ready within a short period of time, and working to ensure the safety of passengers and crew between flights.

Certification is required to move beyond the entry level positions available, particularly into supervisory or chief engineer positions. Certification is accomplished through the completion of a program, obtaining 30 months of experience or equivalent, and passing the written, oral and practical exam given by the FAA. Certification is available for Airframe or Engine Mechanics, though most employers prefer the combined Airframe and Power plant certification.

Career Outlook for Aircraft Mechanics

Job growth is expected to be steady for mechanics in aviation over the next decade due to a variety of factors, such as air travel demand and heightened safety considerations. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 5% increase in aircraft mechanics over the next decade resulting in nearly eight thousand new jobs. The current average airplane mechanic salary is $61,260 annually or $29.45 an hour.

States paying the greatest aircraft mechanic salary include Kentucky, Connecticut, Maryland, and Georgia. Income will tend to fluctuate by geographic location, demand, and organization type. Additionally, an aviation mechanic salary will increase based on work ethic, tenure, promotion, advancement in certification(s), work experience, and education.

Individuals interested in aircraft mechanics and maintenance may also be interested in aircraft power plant technology, machine shop technology, avionics maintenance technology, aerospace engineering, welding, or engine machinist.

Featured Rankings

Find Your College Match

Sort By
PHP Code Snippets Powered By : XYZScripts.com