What Education Does a Flight Engineer Need?

Flight engineers serve as one of three aircrew members on larger aircraft. While the pilot and first officer fly the plane, flight engineers are responsible for checking and maintaining its systems, watching for programs while monitoring performance. Although they are not primarily responsible for flying, flight engineers must have plenty of aviation education and experience in order to be considered qualified.

Practical

In order to be licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration, flight engineers must hold at least a commercial pilot certificate and take up to two years of classes in aircraft engine maintenance. Flight engineers can also meet the requirements by logging at least 200 hours as the pilot-in-command of a multi-engine aircraft or by serving as a prior flight engineer for at least 100 hours.

Formal Education

Although becoming FAA certified is the biggest hurdle for flight engineers, employers require flight engineers to hold at least a high school diploma. This is changing, however, as many airlines are beginning to require at least some college experience prior to being hired, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Specifics

In order to become a licensed flight engineer, hopefuls will have to pass a number of FAA written tests. Therefore, students should focus on the study of subjects including aerodynamics, aircraft performance and function, weather and maintenance, says Education.com.

References

• Education: Flight Engineer - Job Description
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Aircraft Pilots and Flight Engineers