Airplane Mechanic School

Coast to coast, there are almost 170 airplane mechanic schools certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Approximately one-third of these schools award two-year and four-year degrees in avionics, aviation technology or aviation maintenance management. These programs prepare you for oral, written and practical hands-on certification examinations. In aircraft mechanic school, you will learn to inspect, diagnose and repair aircraft components including engines, brakes, landing gear and propellers.

To become an airplane mechanic there are four fundamentals:

1. Complete high school
2. Find an FAA accredited school
3. Complete a certificate program
4. Continue with your education

High school courses focused on math, physics, electronics, computer science, chemistry and mechanical drawing prepare you for courses while attending airplane mechanic school. The FAA requires that students log a minimum of 1,900 hours class time, so training lasts approximately 18 to 24 months. The FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certification is required to maintain and repair anything from small aircraft to jet airplanes.

Most military aviation mechanics complete the FAA training program, and some earn college credit for education received while in the armed services. Becoming an airplane mechanic can also give you an opportunity to travel. The U.S. Government employs approximately 100,000 civilian aviation mechanics and avionics technicians to work on military aircraft at bases around the world.

Keep up with technology and training for advancement in your mechanic career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, avionics technicians trained to work with complex aircraft systems should find the best job prospects. Employment is expected to increase by 7 percent through 2018 for mechanics, while the BLS projects avionic technicians should see 11 percent job sector growth.