Do aircraft mechanics make good money?

Yes, aircraft mechanics make good money. The median annual salary for an aircraft mechanic is just over $67,000 in a year. The average hourly wage for an aircraft mechanic is just over $32 per hour.

How long does it take to become an aircraft mechanic?

It typically takes two to four years to become an aircraft mechanic. This is because a career as an aircraft mechanic will require an associate degree. However, some employers may prefer aircraft mechanics with bachelor's-level training in aircraft mechanical technology.

How To Become An Aircraft Mechanic: What It Is and Career Path

What is an aircraft mechanic and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

An aircraft mechanic maintains, inspects, and repairs aircrafts for safe operations. They may work on planes, helicopters, and drones. Aircraft mechanics diagnose and repair issues with engines, electrical systems, brakes, avionics, and components. They also perform routine maintenance and repairs and conduct inspections to identify potential problems. These professionals keep detailed records of their work in compliance with safety regulations and industry standards. Overall, aircraft mechanics ensure the safety and reliability of aircrafts.

ScoreAircraft MechanicUS Average

Salary

4.7

Avg. Salary $60,496

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level

7.8

Growth Rate 6%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity

8.1

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.62%

Asian 6.64%

Black or African American 9.66%

Hispanic or Latino 23.32%

Unknown 5.10%

White 54.66%

Gender

female 6.88%

male 93.12%

Age - 39

Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 39

Stress Level

7.8

Stress level is high

7.1 - high

Complexity Level

6.9

Complexity Level is challenging

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance

4.2

Work Life balance is poor

6.4 - fair

What are the pros and cons of being an Aircraft Mechanic?

Pros

High demand for skilled mechanics
Good pay and benefits
Opportunities for career advancement
Opportunities to work with new technology
Job stability

Cons

Long and irregular hours, including overnight shifts
High stress and pressure to meet deadlines and ensure safety
Constant need for ongoing training and certification
Can be repetitive work at times
Limited opportunities for creativity or innovation

Newest jobs for Aircraft Mechanic in Ashburn, VA

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Key steps to become an aircraft mechanic

Explore aircraft mechanic education requirements

Most common aircraft mechanic degrees

Associate

37.6 %

Bachelor's

27.5 %

High School Diploma

20.9 %

Start to develop specific aircraft mechanic skills

Skills	Percentages
Hand Tools	11.13%
Airframe	6.08%
FAA	5.39%
Aircraft Systems	4.92%
Landing Gear	4.64%

Complete relevant aircraft mechanic training and internships

Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New aircraft mechanics learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an aircraft mechanic based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real aircraft mechanic resumes.

Gain additional aircraft mechanic certifications

Aircraft mechanic certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific aircraft mechanic certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

The most common certifications for aircraft mechanics include Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) and Unmanned Systems Aircraft Maintenance.

More About Certifications

Research aircraft mechanic duties and responsibilities

Work from SRM, TRM, AMM, EO and various other aircraft documentation to accomplish repair objectives.
Perform scheduled maintenance tasks in accordance with manufacturer and FAA guidelines.
Conduce problem analysis, correction/repairs and operational checks of aircraft avionics, electrical, propulsion and hydraulic systems.
Train in OSHA and HAZMAT.

Prepare your aircraft mechanic resume

When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your aircraft mechanic resume.

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