Aircraft Mechanics and Aircraft Inspectors


Aircraft mechanics maintain, repair, overhaul, modify and test aircraft structures, mechanical and hydraulic systems. Aircraft inspectors inspect aircraft and aircraft systems following manufacture, modification, maintenance, repair or overhaul. Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors are employed by aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul establishments, and by airlines, the armed forces and other aircraft operators.

Example Titles

aircraft gas turbine engine technician
aircraft inspector
aircraft maintenance engineer AME (except avionics)
aircraft mechanic
aircraft structural repair technician
aircraft systems inspector
aviation mechanical component shop technician
certified aircraft technician
hydraulic mechanic, aircraft
inspector, flight test
inspector, repair and overhaul
shop inspector, aircraft repair



Main duties

Aircraft mechanics perform some or all of the following duties:

• Troubleshoot aircraft structural, mechanical or hydraulic systems to identify problems and adjust and repair systems according to specifications, technical drawings, manuals and established procedures
• Repair and overhaul aircraft structural, mechanical or hydraulic systems
• Install or modify aircraft engines, mechanical, hydraulic, flight control, fuel and pneumatic systems
• Dismantle airframes, aircraft engines or other aircraft systems for repair, overhaul and cleaning, and reassemble
• Perform and document routine maintenance
• Order and maintain inventory of parts and supplies.

Aircraft mechanics usually specialize in working on specific aircraft systems such as engines, engine accessories, airframes, propellers, mechanical components or hydraulic systems and specific kinds of aircraft, such as light aircraft, jet transports and helicopters.

Aircraft inspectors perform some or all of the following duties:

• Inspect structural and mechanical systems of aircraft and ensure that these systems meet the company standards of performance and safety
• Inspect work of aircraft mechanics performing maintenance, repair and overhaul, or modification of aircraft and aircraft mechanical systems to ensure adherence to standards and procedures
• Maintain detailed repair, inspection and certification records and reports.

Employment requirements

• Completion of secondary school is required.
• A college diploma in aircraft maintenance
  or
  Completion of a four-year apprenticeship program is usually required.
• Several years of on-the-job training are required for aircraft mechanics.
• Trade certification for aircraft maintenance engineers is available
• Trade certification for aircraft structural technicians is available
• Aircraft inspectors require several years of experience as an aircraft mechanic.