Fly High as a Certified Aviation Maintenance Technician |
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June 27, 2005
by Jonathon Donald
Technician Programs Columnist
Airline travel continues to increase as competing fares drop. Aviation maintenance technicians are keeping those planes safe.
Aircraft Welfare
Traveling on an airplane is one of the safest ways to travel. According to statistics, you are more likely to be struck by lightning than crash in an aircraft. Part of the reason airline travel is so safe is that there are certified technicians inspecting and repairing aircraft to ensure safety. The Federal Aviation Administration regulates the training and certification of aviation maintenance technicians, ensuring the highest level of safety.
Once the aircraft is on the ground and passengers are leaving the plane, aircraft maintenance technicians are already ensuring the plane is safe. They thoroughly check the plane, both inside and out, discuss any possible problems with the crew, and perform routine preventative maintenance, such as adding oil or checking tire pressure.
There are several types of aviation maintenance certifications:
Power plant mechanics focus on engines, for both jets and propeller aircraft.
Airframe mechanics deal with all parts of the plane except the electronics, instruments and engine components.
Airframe-and-power plant mechanics (A&P mechanics) work on all parts of the plane, except the electronics and instruments.
Avionics technicians check, repair, and maintain electronic components for navigation, communication and weather systems.
Instrument technicians deal only with the flight instruments.
Becoming a Certified Aviation Maintenance Technician
To become certified as maintenance technician, you must complete a program from an aviation maintenance technician school approved by the FAA. Another possibility would be to work under the supervision of a certified mechanic for at least 18 months. To gain your aviation maintenance certification, you will have to pass a series of tests, including oral, written and hands-on exams.
Most programs are offered through specialized aviation maintenance technician schools, although some community colleges offer programs. Most aviation maintenance technician schools will allow you to become certified in a certain program first, allowing you to return for a higher certification. Avionics and instrument technicians are required to have some higher education, such as an associates' degree in electrical engineering.
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About the Author
Jonathon Donald is a freelance writer, student and teacher. He currently writes for HQ│Publications, teaches English as a second language and attends the University of Nevada. He is currently pursuing a degree in Language and Linguistics, History, and TESOL.
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