How Do You Become an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer? A Step-by-Step Guide to Licensing and Certification

Becoming an aircraft maintenance engineer requires obtaining a specific licence from an aviation authority, such as the UK's CAA or the EU's EASA. This process involves selecting a licence type, completing an approved training course, and gaining mandatory work experience. With a critical global shortage of engineers, this career offers stability and competitive salaries, often exceeding $70,000 annually.

What is an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer?

An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME), also known as an aircraft mechanic, is a licensed professional responsible for ensuring the airworthiness—a term for the legal and technical condition for an aircraft to safely fly—of aircraft. Their duties include performing scheduled maintenance, diagnosing faults, repairing systems, and legally certifying that an aircraft is safe for flight. This role is crucial for safety in both civil and military aviation, offering a technically challenging career with irregular hours and potential for travel.

How Do You Choose the Right Licence?

The first step is deciding between two primary licensing frameworks. In the UK, this means choosing between a licence for EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) aircraft or non-EASA aircraft, which are regulated by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

• EASA Part-66 Licence: Governs aircraft under EU jurisdiction. Licence categories (A, B1, B2, etc.) specify the type of aircraft and maintenance tasks allowed.
• CAA BCAR Section L Licence: Governs non-EASA aircraft in the UK. The main categories are:
  • Category A: For line maintenance (short-term checks during normal ground periods).
  • Category B: For base maintenance (complex, long-duration work in a hangar).

The choice depends on the types of aircraft you aim to work on. Many professionals hold both licences to maximize their employability.

What Training and Education Are Required?

You must complete a training course approved by the relevant aviation authority. Pathways include:

• University Degrees: A Bachelor of Science in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering.
• College Courses: Specialized, faster-paced diplomas and certificates.
• Apprenticeships: Hands-on programs like a Level 4 Aircraft Maintenance Certifying Apprenticeship.

These programs provide the theoretical basic knowledge required by authorities. Based on our assessment experience, apprenticeships are highly valued as they combine paid work with study.

How Much Work Experience is Needed?

Licences mandate practical experience. For an EASA Part-66 licence, you need documented basic experience working under a licensed engineer. For CAA licences, requirements are stricter:

This experience ensures you can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world safety-critical tasks.

What is the Licence Application Process?

After meeting the education and experience requirements, you apply to the licensing body:

• CAA BCAR Licence: Apply directly to the UK Civil Aviation Authority.
• EASA Part-66 Licence: Apply to EASA, though you must typically work through an approved Part-147 training organisation.

The licences are valid for five years and require renewal, which includes demonstrating continued competence. It is important to note that CAA-issued EASA licences became invalid after Brexit, and professionals must now hold licences issued directly by EASA for EU aircraft.

How Do You Find Aircraft Mechanic Jobs?

Once licensed, you can apply to major employers like airlines, engineering firms, airports, and the military. To succeed:

• Tailor your CV: Clearly highlight your specific licence categories and aircraft experience.
• Use specialized job boards: Look on general and aviation-specific recruitment sites.
• Network: Leverage contacts from your training and apprenticeship.

Key takeaways for your career path:

• Research licence types early to align your training with your career goals.
• Choose an approved training provider to ensure your qualifications are recognized.
• Gain as much practical experience as possible to accelerate the licensing process.
• Maintain your licence through ongoing training and careful record-keeping.

Please note that none of the companies, institutions, or organisations mentioned in this article are affiliated with ok.com.