How to Become an Airline Mechanic

Modern commercial aircraft are incredibly complex machines.

Airline mechanics have to go through a rigorous program of training before they are allowed to work on commercial aircraft. The majority are required to obtain training at a Federal Aviation Administration-approved college and then pass a number of tests before they can start work. Once they've done so, they must regularly update their training to make sure they're current with industry developments.

Instructions

1. Graduate from high school with a good record in the sciences, math and English. These subjects can help give you a grounding in the basic principles of aircraft engineering.

2. Make sure you meet the basic requirements of the FAA. The majority of mechanics who work on civilian aircraft are FAA-certified, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. You'll need to be 18 or over and be able to read, write, speak and understand English.

3. Navigate to the FAA maintenance school search facility to find a college that provides a course in the area of aviation mechanics you want to work in. In its occupational outlook handbook of 2010-11, the BLS said: "Aircraft trade schools are placing more emphasis on technologies such as turbine engines, composite materials, and aviation , which are increasingly being used in the construction of new aircraft."

4. Complete your course and apply to the FAA to take your airframe and power plant mechanic tests. Although you may be able to find work with just one of these certificates, most airlines prefer mechanics to have both. Once you pass your tests, then you are FAA-licensed.

5. Navigate to the FAA job site to look for your first role.

6. Keep your work experience up-to-date. If you work less than 1,000 hours in any 24-month period, you'll be required to take a refresher course. Mechanics must also undertake at least 16 hours of training every two years to keep their certificates current. Most airlines offer training and education programs for staff mechanics.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Service Technicians
• Federal Aviation Administration: Basic Requirements to Become an Aircraft Mechanic
• Federal Aviation Administration: Aircraft Mechanic Oral, Practical, & Written Tests

Resources

• Federal Aviation Administration: Maintenance Schools - Search
• Federal Aviation Administration: Jobs