From Hangars to High-Tech: How to Start Your Career in Aircraft Maintenance

What Does an Aircraft Maintenance Technician Do?

Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (sometimes called aviation mechanics or aircraft mechanics) are responsible for:

Inspecting aircraft systems and components

Diagnosing mechanical or electrical issues

Replacing defective parts

Conducting routine and scheduled maintenance

Documenting repairs and maintenance logs

Ensuring compliance with FAA safety regulations

Depending on the job setting, they may specialize in:

Airframe Maintenance (body of the plane)

Powerplant Maintenance (engines and propulsion systems)

Avionics (navigation, communications, radar, etc.)

Most AMTs work at airports, repair stations, airline hangars, or with the military and aerospace contractors. Some even travel with aircraft fleets as “on-call” specialists.

Industry Outlook: Why the Demand Is Growing

The aircraft maintenance field is not just holding steady—it’s expanding fast.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:

There were more than 160,000 aircraft mechanic and service technician jobs in the U.S. as of 2023.

Employment is projected to grow steadily through 2032, with over 10,000 new openings each year due to retirement and increased air traffic.

The post-pandemic airline recovery, boom in private aviation, and growing space/aerospace tech sectors are all driving demand.

Additionally, Boeing’s 2023 Technician Outlook estimates that more than 600,000 new maintenance technicians will be needed globally over the next 20 years. That’s a massive opportunity for anyone entering the field now.

How Do You Become an Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

Step 1: Education

Most technicians start with an FAA-approved Aviation Maintenance Technician School (AMTS), which offers programs in:

Airframe Certificate

Powerplant Certificate

Or a combined A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) program

Programs usually take 18 to 24 months, offered through:

Technical colleges

Community colleges

Aviation-focused trade schools

You’ll learn hands-on skills in hydraulics, engines, electronics, composite materials, and aviation safety standards.

Step 2: Certification (Required by Law)

To work on civilian aircraft in the U.S., you must be certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Most employers require the full A&P certification.

You must also pass written, oral, and practical exams for each certificate.

For those with military aviation maintenance experience, military-to-civilian pathways allow you to test without attending AMTS.

Training Programs and Schools

FAA-approved schools are located across the U.S. and vary in length, cost, and curriculum. Well-known programs include:

Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology (multiple states)

Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PA, OH, SC, WV)

MIAT College of Technology (TX, MI)

Aviation Institute of Maintenance (multiple campuses)

Community colleges like Broward College (FL), Salt Lake Community College (UT), and San Bernardino Valley College (CA)

Many programs also offer career services, job placement, and support for VA education benefits.

Who Should Consider This Career?

Aircraft Maintenance is ideal for people who:

Enjoy hands-on work and solving mechanical problems

Have strong attention to detail and safety

Prefer a structured environment

Like working independently or on small technical teams

Want a career with stability and travel options

This field also attracts veterans, career changers, and recent high school grads who want to enter the workforce quickly with meaningful, high-skill work.

Career Paths and Specializations

After earning your A&P certification and gaining experience, you can specialize or move into roles such as:

Avionics Technician

Inspection Authorization (IA) Mechanic

Aircraft Maintenance Supervisor or Manager

Technical Instructor or FAA Inspector

Corporate Jet Technician

Aerospace Manufacturing Technician

Some AMTs even pursue private contracting or overseas work, especially with airlines and global logistics companies.

Real-World Impact

Aircraft Maintenance Technicians are crucial to aviation safety. Every time a plane takes off safely, it’s thanks to the thorough work of the maintenance crew. Without them, travel, commerce, and military operations would grind to a halt.

A career in aircraft maintenance isn’t just about fixing machines—it’s about keeping lives safe and industries moving.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a skilled trade that offers hands-on work, industry respect, and long-term growth, becoming an Aircraft Maintenance Technician might be the perfect fit. Whether you're starting from scratch or transitioning from military service or another trade, the path is clear—and in demand.

In just under two years, you could be part of a critical workforce keeping the world in flight.

The Importance of Continuous Learning in Aircraft Maintenance

In the rapidly evolving field of aircraft maintenance, continuous learning is paramount. Technological advancements in aviation, such as the integration of artificial intelligence and automation in maintenance processes, necessitate that technicians stay updated with the latest trends and techniques. Ongoing education can involve attending workshops, pursuing advanced certifications, or engaging in specialized training programs offered by manufacturers. This commitment to lifelong learning ensures that AMTs remain competitive and proficient, ultimately enhancing safety and operational efficiency in aviation. Furthermore, adapting to new technologies can open doors to advanced career opportunities, making continuous learning a key factor for success.

Exploring the Global Aircraft Maintenance Landscape

The global landscape of aircraft maintenance is diverse and offers various opportunities for technicians. Countries around the world are expanding their aviation sectors, leading to a rising demand for skilled AMTs. For instance, regions like Asia and the Middle East are investing significantly in aviation infrastructure, creating a robust job market for maintenance professionals. Additionally, international airlines are increasingly seeking technicians with specialized skills to handle advanced aircraft systems. Working abroad can also provide AMTs with unique experiences, cultural exchanges, and potentially higher salaries. Thus, the global aircraft maintenance market not only ensures job security but also paves the way for exciting career paths spanning various continents.