You were that kid, right?
The one who stopped in the middle of playing Red Rover everytime an airplane flew across your play space.
Your idea of fun was going to the airport. Not because you liked flying but because you liked watching the mechanics looking around under the plane before takeoff.
A model airplane was on your birthday list every year. You probably still like them only now you’ve graduated to the big toys. And bigger dreams!
It’s not too late for your dream of being an aircraft technician.
We’ve put together a few ideas on how you can get into the field. These are the basics. Take a minute, read our tips, and get ready to fly-or at least get ready to make flying safe.
Requirements to Become an Aircraft Technician
There are jobs out there that don’t require experience. And plenty of people who can fill them. Being an aircraft technician isn’t one of those jobs.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), aviation mechanics must meet these basic requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Speak, read, and write English.
- Have 18 months experience or,
- Graduate from an approved airplane mechanic school.
- Pass tests.
Once you read deeply about the experience and testing requirements, you may wonder how you can position yourself so that you have the best chance of success. While formal education isn’t necessarily required, most mechanics do enroll in some type of aviation training.
Aircraft Mechanics School or Not?
Consider the human factor at work here. Aviation technicians play a huge role in passenger safety. If the plane isn’t inspected and serviced properly the risk of a crash increases significantly.
Next, think about everything a mechanic must know before ever touching the insides of an airplane.
You may find on-the-job tips in an aviation field magazine but you won’t learn everything you’d learn by taking courses.
For example, the curriculum in most airplane mechanic schools include learning about:
- Federal aviation regulations.
- Maintenance standards, and procedures.
- Aircraft manufacturers’ data sheets and manuals.
- Diagrams of aircraft parts.
This list isn’t inclusive but imagine learning on your own or from a few magazine articles. In addition to what we’ve included here, most schools also have a comprehensive general education requirement. That means a healthy dose of reading, writing, and arithmetic.
Formal training may be the best route for you but before making that decision, have you thought about earning potential?
Are Aviation Mechanics Rich?
Many people choose careers based solely on salary. Others choose a career path based on passion. Passion shouldn’t be ignored but finding out whether your dream job will pay your bills is a good idea too.
The average Aircraft Mechanic salary in the United States is $84,336. Salary ranges vary based on education, certifications, and years in the profession. Salaries typically range between $75,880 and $92,080.
How much do aviation mechanics make if they own the business?
That depends on the business owner and how committed they are to learning the ins and outs of owning their own shop. Business ownership, no matter what business you’re in, means you’re in control of a constantly evolving adventure.
If your dream is owning your own aviation business, spend time learning the .
Your Future Aviation Business
Working for someone else is usually the first step on the road to owning your own aviation business.
The security of a paycheck. Networking a.k.a. socializing. Free on-the-job training.
Maybe you’re ready now for a new adventure or maybe you’re a long-range visionary. Regardless of where you are today, planning for future business now makes sense.
Start with a and tailor it to an aircraft maintenance business.
Creating career options for yourself in the field of aviation may mean pursuing multiple licenses. You may be passionate about engines, hydraulic, or electrical systems. You might be more interested in one type of aircraft over another.
Eventually, you’ll find your fit and each detail will go into your business plan. Don’t make the mistake of not creating a business plan. It’s your roadmap for your business and most lenders won’t even talk to you if you don’t have a plan.
Ready to Fly?
You’ve dreamed of working on planes since you pretended to be one, right?
Now you know the dream of becoming an aircraft technician is possible with the right training. You’re confident the income can be amazing. You’re even thinking about the future and the possibility of owning your own aviation business.
and take a look at our other general business topics. We’re here to help you fly!
