Aviation Mechanics

Aircraft mechanics diagnose mechanical or electrical problems, while avionics equipment mechanics and technicians repair and perform scheduled maintenance on aircraft. Many mechanics are generalists and work on many different types of aircraft, such as jets, piston-driven airplanes, and helicopters. Others specialize in one section, such as the engine, hydraulic system, or electrical system. Airframe and Powerplant (A and P) mechanics are certified generalist mechanics who can independently perform many maintenance and alteration tasks on aircraft. A and P mechanics repair and maintain most parts of an aircraft, including the engines, landing gear, brakes, and air-conditioning system.

Maintenance schedules for aircraft may be based on hours flown, days since the last inspection, trips flown, or a combination of these factors. Maintenance also may need to be done at other times to address specific issues recognized by mechanics or manufacturers. Mechanics use precision instruments to measure wear and identify defects. They may use x-rays or magnetic or ultrasonic inspection equipment to discover cracks that cannot be seen on a plane's exterior. They check for corrosion, distortion, and cracks in the aircraft's main body, wings, and tail. They then repair the metal, fabric, wood, or composite materials that make up the airframe and skin.

Education

Aircraft mechanics and service technicians typically enter the occupation after attending a Part 147 FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school. These schools award a certificate of completion that the FAA recognizes as an alternative to the experience requirements stated in regulations. The schools also grant holders the right to take the relevant FAA exams. Mechanics must be at least 18 years of age, be fluent in English, and have 30 months of experience to qualify for the A or the P rating.

Completion of a program at a Part 147 FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school can substitute for the experience requirement and shorten the time requirements for becoming eligible to take the FAA exams. To keep their certification, mechanics must have completed relevant repair or maintenance work within the previous 24 months. The Inspection Authorization (IA) is available to mechanics who have had an A and P rating for at least 3 years and meet other requirements. IA mechanics are able to review and approve many major repairs and alterations.

When you train in an FAA approved program, you learn how airplane technology works, and you also gain the hands-on training needed to maintain, inspect, and repair the aircraft and its associated systems, such as aircraft instrumentation, communication, and navigation flight controls. Other topics include hydraulics and landing gear inspection, reciprocating engine systems, aircraft electrical systems, and fuel metering.

The FAA requires that aircraft maintenance be done either by a certified mechanic with the appropriate ratings or authorizations or under the supervision of such a mechanic. The FAA offers separate certifications for bodywork and engine work, but employers may prefer to hire mechanics who have both Airframe and Powerplant (A and P) ratings. The A and P ratings generally certify that aviation mechanics meet basic knowledge and ability standards.

Avionics Certification

Avionics technicians typically are certified through a repair station for the specific work they perform on aircraft, or they hold the Airframe rating to work on an aircraft's electronic and flight instrument systems. An Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) certification is available through the National Center for Aerospace Transportation Technologies (NCATT).

Certification Level	Skills Required
Apprentice Aviation Mechanic	Basic Aircraft Maintenance Theory: Fundamental concepts of aircraft systems and maintenance practices. Tool Use and Maintenance: Proper use and upkeep of aircraft maintenance tools and equipment. Safety Practices: Essential safety protocols and procedures specific to aviation maintenance. Basic Inspection Procedures: Performing routine inspections and basic maintenance tasks.
Journeyman Aviation Mechanic	Advanced Aircraft Maintenance Techniques: Skills for diagnosing and repairing complex aircraft issues. Aircraft Systems Knowledge: In-depth understanding of aircraft systems such as engines, avionics, and airframes. Component Overhaul: Overhauling and maintaining critical aircraft components. Regulatory Compliance: Knowledge of FAA regulations and compliance requirements.
Master Aviation Mechanic	Expert-Level Aircraft Maintenance: Performing high-level maintenance, repairs, and modifications. Aircraft Modification and Design: Designing and implementing modifications to improve aircraft performance. Project Management: Managing aircraft maintenance projects, including scheduling and budgeting. Quality Assurance: Ensuring compliance with industry standards and quality assurance processes.

It certifies that aviation mechanics have a basic level of knowledge in the subject area, but it is not required by the FAA for any specific tasks. Avionics technicians who work on communications equipment may need to have the proper radiotelephone operator certification issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Some avionics technicians begin their careers as aircraft mechanics and service technicians. As aircraft mechanics and service technicians gain experience, they may attend classes or otherwise choose to pursue additional certifications that grant privileges to work on specialized flight instruments. Eventually, they may become avionics technicians who work exclusively on flight instruments.

How Do Airplanes Fly?

Modern airplanes are truly engineering marvels. They overcome highly turbulent and unpredictable currents in the air and complete their flights by undertaking many complex maneuvers. This video explores how an airplane flies, and how pilots are able to control an airplane in a logical, yet simple way.

Jet Engine

The working of a jet engine is explained in this video in a logical and illustrative manner with help of animation. This video takes the viewer through 1-spool engine, 2-spool engine, turbo jet engine and turbofan engine.

How Does a Helicopter Fly?

Helicopters can take off and land without the need for a runway. They can hover in the air. They can maneuver in any direction in a 360 degree space. This video will unveil the complexity and science behind flying a helicopter.

The Wright Flyer

The Wright Flyer design was so complete that even modern aircraft use the same general principles of flight control.

Aviation Program Areas

Aircraft Maintenance

Aircraft Inspection: Procedures for inspecting and maintaining aircraft.
Engine Maintenance: Maintenance and troubleshooting of aircraft engines.
Airframe Systems: Maintenance of aircraft structures and systems.
Propulsion Systems: Study of aircraft propulsion systems and components.
Advanced Maintenance Practices: Techniques for complex aircraft maintenance.

Jet Engines

Jet Engine Principles: Functionality and components of jet engines.
Jet Engine Maintenance: Procedures for maintaining and troubleshooting jet engines.
Jet Engine Performance: Factors affecting jet engine performance and efficiency.
Jet Engine Safety: Safety considerations specific to jet engine operations.
Jet Engine Innovations: Latest advancements in jet engine technology.

Technician Training (Mechanical)

Mechanical Systems: Study of aircraft mechanical systems and components.
Hydraulics and Pneumatics: Principles and applications in aircraft systems.
Structural Maintenance: Inspection and repair of aircraft structures.
Tool Usage and Safety: Proper use and safety practices of tools in aircraft maintenance.
Certification Preparation: Preparation for aircraft technician certification exams.

Avionics

Introduction to Avionics: Overview of aircraft electronics and systems integration.
Avionics Maintenance: Maintenance and troubleshooting of avionics equipment.
Navigation Systems: Understanding and operation of aircraft navigation systems.
Communication Systems: Use and maintenance of aircraft communication systems.
Flight Instruments: Functions and calibration of aircraft instruments.

Flight Operations

Flight Training: Practical and theoretical training for pilots.
Instrument Flying: Techniques and regulations for flying with instruments.
Crew Resource Management: Effective teamwork and communication in flight.
Emergency Procedures: Response and management of in-flight emergencies.
Simulator Training: Use of flight simulators for training and proficiency.

FAA Regulations

FAA Regulations: Compliance with Federal Aviation Administration regulations.
International Aviation Laws: Overview of global aviation regulations.
Aviation Security: Measures and protocols for aviation security.
Environmental Regulations: Impact and compliance in aviation operations.
Legal and Ethical Issues: Legal considerations and ethical dilemmas in aviation.

Avionics Technicians

Avionics equipment mechanics and technicians repair and perform scheduled maintenance on aircraft. Airplanes require reliable parts and maintenance in order to fly safely. To keep an airplane in operating condition, aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and technicians perform scheduled maintenance, make repairs, and complete inspections. They must follow detailed regulations set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that dictate maintenance schedules for different operations.

Avionics technicians are specialists who repair and maintain a plane's electronic instruments, such as radio communication devices and equipment, radar systems, and navigation aids. As the use of digital technology increases, more time is spent maintaining computer systems. The ability to repair and maintain many avionics and flight instrument systems is granted through the Airframe rating, but other licenses or certifications may be needed as well.

Types of Aircraft

Ask yourself if you can see yourself as an aviation professional, working with sophisticated aircraft, and complex equipment. While classes and internships will prepare you well, certain innate qualities that you bring to bear will help you succeed.

Aircraft Specification

Propeller Aircraft are powered by piston engines that drive propellers to generate thrust. These aircraft typically have a slower cruising speed compared to jet aircraft but are often used for general aviation, regional flights, agricultural purposes such as crop dusting, and aerial firefighting. Examples include the Cessna 172, Piper PA-28, and Beechcraft Bonanza.

Turboprop Aircraft feature gas turbine engines that power propellers, combining features of both piston and jet propulsion. They offer greater speed and efficiency compared to piston aircraft while retaining some of the advantages of propeller-driven designs, such as shorter takeoff and landing distances. Examples include the ATR 72, Bombardier Q400, and Beechcraft King Air.

Jet Aircraft produce thrust by expelling high-speed exhaust gases. They are known for their high speed, efficiency at high altitudes, and ability to cover long distances quickly. Jet aircraft are used for a wide range of purposes, including commercial aviation, military applications, and cargo transport. Examples include the Boeing 737, Airbus A320, and Gulfstream G650.

Helicopters are rotary-wing aircraft that achieve lift and propulsion by rotating sets of blades or rotors. They are capable of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) and can hover in place, making them highly versatile for tasks such as transportation, emergency medical services, law enforcement, and search and rescue. Helicopters come in various configurations, including single-engine, twin-engine, and multi-engine models. Examples include the Bell 407, Eurocopter AS350, and Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk.

VTOL and STOL Aircraft: Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) and Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) aircraft are designed to operate from limited space or without the need for long runways. These aircraft can include tiltrotors, tiltwings, and other unconventional designs that offer the ability to take off and land vertically or in short distances. Examples include the Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey, Harrier Jump Jet, and various experimental VTOL designs.