How Much Money Do Aviation Mechanics Make?

Aviation mechanics work in a wide variety of areas, but due to the importance and crucial nature of their work, must be highly trained and specialized. This specialization often translates into a good salary, as most mechanics in the aviation industry make close to $50,000 a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Average Pay

The average aircraft mechanic earned a mean salary of $52,810 in 2009, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Mechanics who specialized in working with avionics such as radios, radar and navigational aids, meanwhile, earned an average of $50,570 a year.

Variation

Mechanics with a great deal of experience can often earn more than the average salary. The top 10 percent of earners in the industry, according to the same survey, made $71,600 in 2009. The highest paid avionics technicians, meanwhile, made $65,620 a year. Those less experienced, though, can expect to earn less. The lowest-paid aircraft mechanics made just $33,360, while less experienced avionics technicians earned $34,640.

Advancement

Aviation mechanics can continue to gain experience and licenses from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to improve their job prospects and pay. In addition to this, qualified mechanics with flight experience can also take a test to become an FAA certified flight engineer which, in turn, may present the opportunity to become a pilot.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2009 - Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2009 - Avionics Technicians
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians