Aviation Mechanic Salary

In aviation mechanics, size does matter. The size of an aircraft or the airline, that is. In general, the bigger the craft serviced, the higher an aviation mechanic's salary. Company size and amount of hiring also impact take-home pay.

Without an airframe and power plant (A&P) license, aviation mechanics make considerably less and may need to search relentlessly for employment. Keep in mind, there are specialized areas within the field that increase opportunity for advancement and pay grade.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that an aviation mechanic salary was $53,280 in 2010. By the year 2018, the employment for aircraft mechanics and service technicians should rise 6 percent.

• Avionics technician is the highest growth occupation in aviation mechanics. Avionics technicians repair and maintain components used for aircraft navigation and radio communications, weather radar systems and other instruments. In May 2010, avionic technicians earned a mean salary of $52,050 per year. The BLS expects an 11 percent rise in employment by 2018.

An airline mechanic salary is dependent also on work location, level of experience and licenses held. According to Avjobs.com, an employee with experience who is A&P certified earns a salary of $73,000 per year.

According to the BLS, these five states paid the highest aviation mechanic salary:

1. Tennessee
2. Indiana
3. Kentucky
4. Connecticut
5. New Jersey

The U.S. Government employs approximately 100,000 civilian aviation mechanics and avionics technicians to work on military aircraft at bases around the world. Most military aviation mechanics complete the FAA training program, although some earn credit for education received while in the service.