Airplane Maintenance Training
Airplane maintenance professionals are responsible for making sure flying vehicles such as planes and helicopters function safely and properly, according to Education-Portal.com. They determine potential problems and communicate this information with pilots. They also ensure that vehicles can maintain fuel efficiency and velocity without shaking uncomfortably during flight. Airplane maintenance training programs provide students with the classroom knowledge and hands-on experience they need to succeed in this field.
-
Degree/Certificate
-
Individuals who are interested in entering the airplane maintenance industry can complete an associate's degree program in aviation maintenance technology, according to DegreeDirectory.org. This type of program trains students to identify problems with airframes, controls, landing gear and power generating systems and then perform the necessary maintenance or parts replacement. Students also learn to perform tests and keep detailed records of what they find and do. In addition, students can choose to complete a diploma program in this field, according to DiplomaGuide.com. By law, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which certifies programs, requires that certified mechanic schools offer students at least 1,900 class hours, according to the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics. These programs typically last one to two years, while two- and four-year degree programs in avionics, aviation maintenance management and aviation technology also are available.
Certification
-
Most mechanics who work on civilian aircraft are certified by the FAA as an airframe mechanic, power plant mechanic or avionics repair specialist. These professionals are allowed to work on certain portions of an aircraft. The FAA requires at least 18 months of work experience or completion of a program at an FAA-certified school for these certificates. Candidates then must pass written, oral and practical tests within a 24-month period. Certified mechanics must maintain their certification by completing continuing education requirements every two years.
-
Classes
-
Courses in an airplane maintenance training program might cover topics such as aircraft airframe, diesel mechanics and repair and technical/mechanical blueprint reading. Other classes might include power plants, hydraulics, materials, pneumatics, engines, welding and metallic/nonmetallic structures. In addition, students might have to take courses in computer science, physics, chemistry or math. Students also might study turbine engines, corrosion control or ignition systems, according to the University of Alaska, which offers certificate and associate degree programs in aviation maintenance. Students in these types of programs learn to work on a variety of planes.
Prospects
-
With an education in airplane maintenance, individuals can work for airlines, government agencies, air transport/cargo companies, corporate offices or manufactures. They also might find employment in the military or aerospace industry. They can choose to work for private or commercial transportation companies.
Projection
-
Employment of aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and service technicians is projected to grow by 7 percent from 2008 to 2018. Median hourly wages of aircraft mechanics and service technicians in May 2008 were about $24.71, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
-
References
- Photo Credit airplane image by Clarence Alford from Fotolia.com
