Comprehensive Guide to Becoming an Aircraft Maintenance Technician

Are you fascinated by aircraft and have a knack for mechanics? A career as an Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) might be your perfect fit. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an AMT, from educational requirements to career prospects.

What is an Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

Aircraft Maintenance Technicians are the unsung heroes of aviation safety. They play a crucial role in keeping aircraft in top-notch condition, ensuring the safety of passengers and crew. But what exactly do AMTs do?

Key Responsibilities of an AMT:

• Conducting routine inspections
• Troubleshooting mechanical issues
• Performing repairs and replacements
• Maintaining detailed maintenance records
• Ensuring compliance with FAA regulations

Why Consider a Career as an AMT?

The aviation industry offers exciting opportunities for skilled technicians. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $65,550 in May 2020. Even better, the job outlook is promising, with employment projected to grow 5% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.

How to Become an Aircraft Maintenance Technician

Step 1: Complete Your Education

Most AMTs start their journey by completing a formal training program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). These programs cover a wide range of subjects, including:

• Mathematics
• Aircraft drawings
• Weight and balance
• Aircraft materials and processes
• Physics
• Electricity
• FAA regulations

Step 2: Choose the Right Training Program

Many aspiring AMTs attend an Aviation Maintenance Technician School certified by the FAA under 14 CFR Part 147. These programs offer a perfect blend of hands-on training and classroom instruction, covering both airframe and powerplant ratings.

Step 3: Get Certified

The gold standard for AMTs in the United States is the Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) License. To earn this certification, you’ll need to:

1. Pass a series of exams
2. Have at least 18 months of work experience in an FAA-certified repair station or complete a program at an FAA-approved school

The FAA outlines specific training and testing requirements in 14 CFR Part 65. For more details on the certification process, check out the FAA Mechanic Certification page.

Step 4: Gain Additional Training

Many airlines and maintenance organizations require additional training specific to their aircraft and engine types. This might include:

• Manufacturer-specific training (e.g., Boeing, Airbus)
• Vendor training (e.g., Pratt & Whitney)
• Quality assurance training
• On-the-job training (OJT)
• Equipment operation and safety training

Essential Tools of the Trade

As an AMT, you’ll become intimately familiar with various technical documents and manuals. These are your go-to resources for maintaining and repairing aircraft:

1. Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM): Your bible for detailed maintenance operations.
2. Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPC): A visual guide with detailed descriptions and part numbers.
3. Trouble Shooting Manual (TSM): Your detective toolkit for identifying and fixing aircraft malfunctions.
4. Component Maintenance Manual (CMM): Your guide for off-aircraft maintenance tasks.
5. Maintenance Planning Document (MPD): Your schedule for repetitive maintenance tasks and intervals.

A Day in the Life of an AMT

What does a typical day look like for an Aircraft Maintenance Technician? Here’s a glimpse:

• Maintenance Procedures: Lubrication, servicing, examination, and inspection tasks based on the MSG-3 methodology.
• Ground Handling: Moving aircraft on the ground, including towing, marshalling, and jacking.
• System Lockout and Placarding: Implementing safety procedures during maintenance.

Ethics and Professionalism in Aviation Maintenance

As an AMT, you’re not just working on machines; you’re responsible for the safety of countless lives. This responsibility comes with high ethical standards and professionalism:

• Adhering to safety regulations
• Maintaining accurate maintenance records
• Staying current with industry standards and best practices
• Considering human factors in maintenance operations

The National Transportation Safety Board emphasizes the importance of ethics and professionalism in aviation maintenance to ensure the safety of air travel.

Career Growth and Continuous Learning

The aviation industry is constantly evolving, and so should you. Here’s how you can stay ahead:

Recurrent and Refresher Training

• Annual recurrent training on FAA regulations
• Manufacturer-specific updates
• New technology and equipment training

Career Advancement Opportunities

• Specialization in specific areas (e.g., avionics, mechanical systems)
• Advancement to roles such as maintenance inspector or manager
• Transition to related fields like aerospace engineering or aviation safety

Resources to Get You Started

Ready to take flight on your AMT career journey? Here are some valuable resources:

1. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): Your one-stop shop for certification, training programs, and regulatory requirements.
2. Aviation Maintenance Technician Schools: A comprehensive list of FAA-certified schools under 14 CFR Part 147.
3. Manufacturer and Vendor Training:
   • Boeing Training
   • Airbus Training

Online Learning and Resources

While hands-on training is crucial, these online resources can supplement your learning:

• FAA Online Resources: Includes handbooks and advisory circulars.
• Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook: A comprehensive guide on principles, fundamentals, and technical procedures.

Top Accredited Aviation Maintenance Programs in the US

Looking for the best place to start your AMT education? Consider these top-rated programs:

1. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
   • Address: 1 Aerospace Boulevard, Daytona Beach, FL 32114
   • Aviation Maintenance Science Program
   • Offers an Associate of Science in Aviation Maintenance Science
   • FAA-approved program preparing students for A&P certification
   • Full-time, 5-semester program
   • Cost: Approximately $49,000 per year (including tuition and fees)
2. Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics
   • Address: 5 Allegheny County Airport, West Mifflin, PA 15122
   • Aviation Maintenance Technology Program
   • Comprehensive 16-month program leading to an Aviation Maintenance Technology diploma
   • Prepares students for A&P certification eligibility
   • Full-time, accelerated format
   • Cost: Approximately $37,000 for the entire program
3. Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology
   • Address: 8820 E Pine St, Tulsa, OK 74115
   • Aviation Maintenance Technology Program
   • Offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology
   • Prepares students for A&P certification
   • Full-time, 17-month program
   • Cost: Approximately $45,000 for the entire program

Becoming an Aircraft Maintenance Technician is more than just a career choice; it’s a commitment to aviation safety and excellence. With the right education, training, and dedication, you can soar to new heights in this rewarding profession. Are you ready to take off on your AMT journey?