Becoming an aircraft mechanic is a rewarding career choice for those who are passionate about aviation and have a knack for fixing things. However, it requires a significant amount of time and effort to become a certified aircraft mechanic. In this blog post, we will discuss the steps involved in becoming an aircraft mechanic and how long it takes to achieve this goal.
Step 1: Education
The first step to becoming an aircraft mechanic is to obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. After that, you need to enroll in an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school. These schools offer programs that range from 18 months to 2 years, depending on the level of certification you want to achieve. During this time, you will learn about aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, and safety regulations.
Step 2: Work Experience
After completing your education, you need to gain practical experience by working as an apprentice or trainee under a certified aircraft mechanic. This on-the-job training can take anywhere from 18 months to 5 years, depending on the level of certification you want to achieve. During this time, you will work on different types of aircraft and gain hands-on experience in repairing and maintaining them.
Step 3: Certification
Once you have completed your education and work experience, you need to pass the FAA certification exams to become a certified aircraft mechanic. There are three levels of certification: Airframe, Powerplant, and Airframe and Powerplant (A&P). The Airframe certification covers the structure, systems, and components of an aircraft, while the Powerplant certification covers the engines and related systems. The A&P certification covers both Airframe and Powerplant.
The FAA certification exams consist of a written test and a practical test. The written test covers the theoretical knowledge you have gained during your education, while the practical test evaluates your ability to perform maintenance tasks on an aircraft.
Conclusion
Becoming an aircraft mechanic requires a significant amount of time and effort. It takes at least 2 years to complete the education and up to 5 years to gain practical experience. However, the rewards of this career are worth the effort. Aircraft mechanics are in high demand, and the job offers a good salary, job security, and opportunities for advancement.
In conclusion, if you are passionate about aviation and have a knack for fixing things, becoming an aircraft mechanic can be a fulfilling career choice. It requires dedication, hard work, and a commitment to lifelong learning, but the rewards are well worth it.
