Becoming an Aircraft Mechanic

As more airplanes are produced, the need for aircraft maintenance technicians increases. This means that a career as an aircraft mechanic is very up-and-coming. Aircraft mechanics are also called aircraft maintenance technicians or aircraft engineers. Whatever the job title, this is an exciting opportunity to work with your hands in the aviation field!

Aircraft Mechanic Career

Aircraft mechanics are in charge of replacing, repairing, and maintaining the parts and components of airplanes and other aircraft. Aircraft mechanics are also responsible for performing functional checks on aircraft systems such as electrical systems, hydraulic systems, and pneumatic systems.

There are a number of types of aircraft mechanics, each specializing in a specific set of skills. For example, avionics technicians work on the electrical systems and components while structural mechanics work on the frame of the aircraft. Below are a few of the other types of aircraft mechanics:

• Powerplant Mechanics – Powerplant mechanics are able to maintain and service aircraft engines but aren’t typically allowed to work on the airframe components. Most mechanics are certified for both powerplant and airframe.
• Airframe Mechanics – An airframe mechanic performs maintenance on airframe components including the tail section, fuselage, wings, and landing gear. Airframe mechanics aren’t typically allowed to work on engines unless supervised.
• Avionics Technicians – Lastly, avionics technicians are specially trained to perform service and maintenance on aircraft instruments including radios, computers, radar, communications, and autopiloting systems.

In order to be a successful aircraft mechanic, it’s important that you’re able to work quickly and efficiently, while meeting demanding flight schedules and adhering to the highest safety standards. Additionally, you may be subject to strenuous physical work, a chaotic environment, and high noise levels. On the upside, it’s definitely not lacking in excitement!

For more information on the certification and training required to become an aircraft mechanic, please contact Elevate Aviation. Our flight school is located here in Salt Lake City, Utah.