How to become an A&P Aircraft Mechanic?

If you’re interested in aviation and love the idea of working with aircraft, becoming an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) mechanic could be the perfect career for you. A&Ps are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and inspection of aircraft, making sure they are safe and ready for flight. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of becoming an A&P and provide tips on how to land your dream aircraft mechanic job.

Introduction to Becoming an A&P Aircraft Mechanic

Before we dive into the details of how to become an A&P Aircraft Mechanic, let’s first take a look at what this career entails. A&Ps / Aircraft Mechanics are highly skilled professionals who work on aircraft, ensuring that they are safe and airworthy. As an A&P, you will be responsible for maintaining, repairing, and inspecting aircraft, including everything from small single-engine planes to large commercial jets.

A&Ps are also responsible for troubleshooting any issues that arise during flights and making necessary repairs. This is a critical job, as any issues with an aircraft could lead to a potentially dangerous situation in the air. As a result, A&Ps Aircraft Mechanics must be highly skilled, detail-oriented, and committed to safety.

Benefits of Becoming an A&P Aircraft Mechanic

There are many benefits to becoming an A&P. One of the most significant advantages is job security. The aviation industry is constantly growing, and there is a high demand for qualified A&Ps. This means that once you become an A&P, you should have no trouble finding work.

A&P Aircraft Mechanic Salary

Another benefit of becoming an A&P is the potential to earn a good salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $64,090 in May 2020. This is a good salary, especially considering that you don’t need a four-year degree to become an A&P.

FAA Requirements to Become an A&P

To become an A&P, you must meet the requirements set by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration). The FAA requires that you have a high school diploma or equivalent, and you must complete an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school program or have at least 30 months of on-the-job training.

If you choose to complete an FAA-approved school program, you will need to complete a minimum of 1,900 class hours in a two-year program. The program must cover both airframe and powerplant mechanics. Once you have completed the program, you will need to pass a series of written, oral, and practical exams to obtain your A&P license.

How to Become an A&P at Florida Flyers

Florida Flyers Flight Academyis one of the leading aviation schools in the country, and they often hire experienced General Aviation A&Ps Aircraft Mechanics. The initial A&P Aircraft Mechanic Program is designed to prepare you for a career as an A&P mechanic, and it covers both airframe and powerplant mechanics.

The program consists of 1,900 class hours over a two-year period. You will learn all of the skills necessary to become an A&P, including how to maintain, repair, and inspect aircraft. Once you have completed the program, you will be prepared to take the necessary exams to obtain your A&P license and work on aircraft.

Airframe and Powerplant License – What It Is and How to Get It

The A&P license is a certification that allows you to work as an aircraft mechanic. There are two parts to the A&P license: airframe and powerplant. To obtain your A&P license, you must complete the necessary coursework and pass a series of exams.

The airframe portion of the license covers everything related to the structure of the aircraft, including the wings, fuselage, and landing gear. The powerplant portion of the license covers everything related to the aircraft’s engines and propellers.

To obtain your A&P license, you will need to pass a series of written, oral, and practical exams. These exams are designed to test your knowledge of aircraft mechanics and ensure that you are qualified to work as an A&P.

Job Description of an A&P Aircraft Mechanic

As we mentioned earlier, A&Ps are responsible for maintaining, repairing, and inspecting aircraft. This means that they must have a wide range of skills, including knowledge of electrical systems, hydraulics, and fuel systems. They must also be able to troubleshoot any issues that arise during flights and make necessary repairs.

A&Ps often work in teams, and they may specialize in a particular area of aircraft maintenance. For example, some A&Ps may specialize in avionics, while others may focus on sheet metal repair.

A&P with Inspection Authority – What It Means and How to Get It

An A&P with Inspection Authority (IA) is an A&P who has been authorized by the FAA to perform inspections on aircraft. This is a higher level of certification and requires additional training and experience.

To become an A&P with IA, you must first obtain your A&P license. You will then need to complete additional coursework and pass a series of exams to obtain your IA certification. Once you have your IA certification, you will be authorized to perform inspections on aircraft and sign off on maintenance work.

Aircraft Maintenance – 100 Hour Inspections

One of the most important responsibilities of an A&P is conducting inspections on aircraft. The FAA requires that all aircraft undergo regular inspections to ensure that they are safe and airworthy. One type of inspection that A&Ps perform is the 100 hour inspection.

The 100 hour inspection is a comprehensive inspection of the aircraft that must be performed every 100 hours of flight time. During this inspection, the A&P will inspect the aircraft’s engine, propeller, electrical systems, and other critical components.

Aircraft Maintenance – Annual Inspections

In addition to the 100 hour inspection, all aircraft must undergo an annual inspection. This inspection is more comprehensive than the 100 hour inspection and must be performed by an A&P with IA certification.

During the annual inspection, the A&P will inspect all of the aircraft’s critical components, including the engine, propeller, landing gear, and electrical systems. The A&P will also review the aircraft’s logbooks and maintenance records to ensure that all required maintenance has been performed.

Aircraft Repair and Maintenance

In addition to inspections, A&Ps are responsible for repairing and maintaining aircraft. This can involve everything from replacing a faulty part to performing a major overhaul of the engine. A&Ps must be skilled in a wide range of areas, including electrical systems, hydraulics, and fuel systems.

A&Ps are also responsible for troubleshooting any issues that arise during flights and making necessary repairs. This requires a quick thinking and problem-solving skills.

Companies Hiring A&P’s and A&P Salary

There are many companies that hire A&Ps, including airlines, private aviation companies, and government agencies. Some of the top employers of A&Ps include Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and Boeing.

The salary for A&Ps can vary depending on the employer and location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for aircraft mechanics and service technicians was $64,090 in May 2020. However, A&Ps who work for airlines or government agencies may earn more.

Tips for Landing Your Dream Aircraft Mechanic Job

If you’re interested in becoming an A&P, there are a few things you can do to increase your chances of landing your dream job. First, make sure you have the necessary education and training. Completing an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician program is a great way to get started.

Networking is also important in the aviation industry. Attend aviation events and job fairs, and make connections with people in the industry. Finally, consider obtaining additional certifications, such as an IA certification or a certification in avionics.

Conclusion

Becoming an A&P is a great career choice for anyone who loves aviation and wants to work with aircraft. It requires a lot of hard work and dedication, but the rewards are worth it. If you’re interested in becoming an A&P, start by researching FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician programs and take the first step towards your dream career.

Contact us or call Florida Flyers Team at +1 904 209 3510 to learn more about our A&P job opportunities.