Airplane Mechanic School Program Options and Information
The field of airplane mechanics, also known as aviation maintenance, requires attendance at an airplane mechanic school. Technical training programs prepare students to become professionals and earn diplomas and degrees in their area of interest. Program information about aviation maintenance technology and avionics technology follows in this article.
Diploma in Aviation Maintenance Technology
An Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program takes 14-24 months to complete and is offered through community colleges and vocational schools. The program teaches students the basics about repairing and maintaining airplanes, including single engine and transport airplanes. Airplane mechanic school provides the practical experience required to take the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) licensing exams. Applicants must be high school graduates with a diploma or GED to enter airplane mechanic colleges.
Program Coursework
Hands-on learning is emphasized in this technical field. A strong background in math and science is recommended. Some class topics include:
- Airframe systems
- Fundamentals of aircrafts
- Electrical systems and electricity
- Engine mechanics
- Inspections and protection
- Engine troubleshooting
- Welding and structures
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job growth for avionics equipment mechanics and service technicians was expected to grow seven percent between 2008 and 2018 (www.bls.gov). The mean annual wage for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $51,650 in May 2008, reports the BLS.
Continuing Education Information
Many AMT programs offer students an associate degree option with the fulfillment of just a few more classes. The successful completion of an AMT program qualifies students to apply for an airframe and powerplant (A & P) license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Students complete written, oral and practical exams and must show proof of airplane mechanic experience. The A & P license is necessary to hold an airplane mechanic job, and certifies the holder as an airplane maintenance technician.
Bachelor's Degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology
Additional airplane mechanic schooling may be achieved through colleges and universities. The 4-year program includes training to earn the FAA's A & P license, but can accommodate people who are already licensed. Education in many different areas of aircraft maintenance is available, such as testing, logistics and management. All students learn about safety regulations, troubleshooting systems and ethical and professional standards within the aviation industry. A high school diploma or GED is necessary to apply.
Program Coursework
Previous algebra and chemistry courses are recommended. Internships are available to gain additional practical experience. Class subjects include:
- Aircraft structures
- Aviation science
- Avionics management
- Communications
- Engine systems
- Technology and electricity
Popular Career Options
The A&P license opens up plenty of opportunities in entry-level positions. Graduates, when licensed, can look forward to careers as:
- Aircraft mechanics
- Aviation inspectors
- Parts managers
- Service technicians
Diploma in Avionics Technology
Aviation electronics, or avionics technology, concerns the repair and maintenance of the electronic components of an aircraft. Navigation systems, flight computers, radars and radios are all under avionics technicians' domain and demand specialized training. Students learn to install, fix, test and replace computer equipment and systems required for primary functions. Many airplane mechanic school programs require students to have their FAA A&P certification, or at the very least aviation maintenance experience under a certified aviation mechanic.
Program Coursework
The curriculum comprises lectures and labs. Program completion can take 7-15 months, depending on experience and certification. Common course topics are:
- Auto-flight systems
- Communications and recorders
- Currents and circuits
- Avionics line maintenance
- Global positioning systems
- Wiring techniques
Employment Outlook and Salary Information
The BLS predicted in 2008 that avionics technicians would have the best job prospects among avionics equipment mechanics and service technicians. In May 2008, the mean annual wage for avionics technicians was $49,360.
Continuing Education Information
The completion of extra courses in the program qualifies students to earn an associate's degree. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) offers a general class radiotelephone operator's certificate, and the technical training in an avionics program prepares students to earn it.
Bachelor's Degree in Avionics Technology
Technology, science and engineering combine to tackle the current and future demands of aviation in this 4-year airplane mechanic school program. Students learn about electronics systems aboard corporate, commercial and private aircrafts. Hands-on experience in mechanics and logistics provide a solid technical background for avionics maintenance, repair and installation. Navigation, management, instrument and avoidance systems are covered. Students are required to have a high school diploma or GED.
Program Coursework
Physics, chemistry and math are prerequisite courses. General core classes include:
- Avionics
- Blueprints and drafts
- Digital circuits
- Engineering physics
- Microelectronics
- Testing and inspection
Popular Career Options
In addition to repairing and maintaining existing equipment, graduates are ready for jobs that allow them to research and develop new systems. Examples of these positions include:
- Avionics technician
- Avionics engineer
- Electrical engineer
Continuing Education Information
Graduates earn the FCC's certificate for general class radiotelephone operators. They are also eligible to take the necessary exams for the FAA's A&P license.
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4 Popular Schools
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Associate
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- CCAF - Associate to Baccalaureate Cooperative Program (AUABC)
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
- Bachelor
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be 17 years of age or older
School locations:
- Online Learning
Online Programs
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Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be 18 years of age or older
School locations:
- Online Learning
Distance Learning Programs
Other Schools:
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School locations:
- Illinois (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at Southern Illinois University include:
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- Graduate: Doctorate, First Professional Degree, Master
- Post Degree Certificate: Postbaccalaureate Certificate
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance
- Automotive Mechanics
- Avionics Repair and Maintenance
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
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School locations:
- Utah (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at Utah State University include:
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- Graduate: Doctorate, Master
- Non-Degree: Coursework
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Precision Metal Working
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance
- Avionics Repair and Maintenance
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School locations:
- Alaska (2 campuses)
Areas of study you may find at University of Alaska include:
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- Graduate: Doctorate, Master
- Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
- Post Degree Certificate: Postbaccalaureate Certificate
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Construction Management and Trades
- Electrical Repair and Maintenance
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Aircraft Powerplant Tech
- Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance
- Automotive Mechanics
- Diesel Mechanics
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School locations:
- Kansas (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at Kansas State University include:
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- Graduate: Doctorate, First Professional Degree, Master
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
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School locations:
- Wisconsin (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at Milwaukee Area Technical College include:
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- Non-Degree: Certificate, Coursework
- Undergraduate: Associate
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Construction Management and Trades
- Electrical Repair and Maintenance
- Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation, and Refrigeration Maintenance
- Heavy Equipment Maintenance
- Precision Metal Working
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Aircraft Powerplant Tech
- Airframe Mechanics and Aircraft Maintenance
- Autobody Repair
- Automotive Mechanics
- Diesel Mechanics
Other Related Schools:
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School locations:
- Rhode Island (1 campus)
Areas of study you may find at New England Institute of Technology include:
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- Non-Degree: Coursework
- Undergraduate: Associate, Bachelor
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies
- Construction Management and Trades
- Electrical Repair and Maintenance
- Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
- Autobody Repair
- Automotive Mechanics
- Marine Watercraft Repair and Maintenance
