Aviation mechanics keep planes safe and operational, requiring FAA licensing and physical and communication skills. Maintenance includes airframe, power plant, and instrument repair, with most jobs in transportation and air support. Hazards include noise and weather, but benefits include a good salary and free travel.
Aviation mechanics are responsible for keeping the aircraft safe and in working order. These types of mechanics must keep all flights and related operations on schedule. Since a fully functioning plane is needed to transport travelers from one destination to another, mechanical jobs in aviation are necessary and a critical link in the airlines’ chain of activities.
An airplane mechanic must be licensed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), although an assistant mechanic does not need such a license. The license allows the aviation mechanic to work on the airframe, engine, propellers, radio and various flight instruments. Most aviation mechanic jobs are awarded to individuals certified in structure and power plant maintenance. Training for aviation mechanic jobs includes a two-year program with 30 hours of instruction per week. Upon completion, the FAA test must be taken and passed before a flight mechanic can be certified.
Aviation maintenance jobs require a good driving record, the ability to drive trucks, hangar vehicles and other large powered equipment, and jet experience. Also, communication skills are essential, as are the skills to work well with a team and under pressure. Physical skills are also crucial, as aviation mechanics often need to lift up to 22.68 kg at a time. Aviation mechanic jobs also require long hours and night or weekend work; therefore, those who choose this profession must be flexible and willing to adapt to a demanding schedule.
Aviation maintenance falls into a few different categories and aviation mechanic jobs fall into all of them. Maintenance departments include airframe mechanics, power plant technicians, instrument repairers, and avionics technicians. Technicians repair aircraft systems, while airframe mechanics work on a plane’s airframe, and power plant mechanics specialize in engine repair. Morning aviation mechanic jobs require the crew to work together to get the aircraft ready for their daily journeys. During the day, aircraft maintenance must take place, and at night, several calendar control inspections are required.
More than half of aviation mechanic jobs are in transportation and air support, while the remaining positions are held in aerospace facilities and government. Also, flight mechanics can work for smaller companies that use their own planes. Since most aviation mechanics work at airports, they often live near major cities. The downsides of a career in aviation maintenance include exposure to hazards, loud noise and adverse weather conditions, but the upsides include a good salary, extensive benefits and free travel for mechanics and their families.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
