(Washington Insider Magazine) – An A&P mechanic is a certified mechanic who is authorized to perform maintenance, repairs, and inspections on aircraft. The term “A&P” stands for Airframe and Powerplant, which are the two primary components of an aircraft. To become an A&P mechanic, one must complete a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved training program or have equivalent work experience. Getting an A&P license may be a great choice for people looking to make a good salary a year. Let’s find out about A&P mechanic salary in the following post.
Job Description of An A&P Mechanic
An A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) mechanic is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and servicing aircraft to ensure they are safe and operating efficiently. The job description typically involves working on different types of aircraft, including airplanes, helicopters, and other types of flying machines.
Here are some of the key job titles and responsibilities of an A&P mechanic:
- Inspect and diagnose aircraft for mechanical problems and defects.
- Repair or replace aircraft components, such as engines, wings, and landing gear.
- Perform routine maintenance tasks, such as changing oil, replacing filters, and lubricating parts.
- Test and adjust aircraft systems and equipment to ensure they are working correctly.
- Document all maintenance and repair work by FAA regulations.
- Order and maintain inventory of parts, tools, and equipment necessary for maintenance and repair work.
- Communicate with other mechanics, pilots, and air traffic controllers to ensure the safe and efficient operation of aircraft.
To become an A&P mechanic, individuals must complete a formal training program and pass a series of exams to become certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Additionally, A&P mechanics must keep their skills up-to-date by completing regular training and education courses.
What Is An Average A&P Mechanic Salary?
The national average salary of an A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) mechanic can vary depending on several factors such as experience, location, and employer. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2020, the median annual wage for aircraft mechanics and service technicians, which includes A&P mechanics, was $66,680.
The lowest 10 percent salary ranges less than $39,040, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $100,480. Additionally, A&P mechanics who work in the federal government tend to earn more than those who work in the private sector.
It’s worth noting that annual salaries can vary widely depending on the specific industry within aviation an A&P mechanic works in. For example, those who work in the aerospace product and parts manufacturing industry are doing a high paying job as they have higher wages. Those who work in the scheduled air transportation industry may have a lower salary range.
How to Become an A&P Mechanic?
To become an A&P mechanic (Airframe and Powerplant mechanic), you generally need to follow these steps:
1. Meet Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible to become for an A&P mechanic job, you must be at least 18 years old, fluent in English, and meet specific educational or experience requirements. You must also have a valid mechanic certificate issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
2. Complete An FAA-Approved Training Program
You can complete a formal training program at an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school. These programs can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months to complete and will cover both airframe and powerplant maintenance.
3. Gain Experience
After completing your training, you’ll need to gain practical experience working on aircraft maintenance. The FAA requires that you have at least 18 months of experience working on airframes or powerplants or a combination of both. Alternatively, you can gain the required experience by serving in the military or as an apprentice under a certified A&P mechanic.
4. Pass the FAA A&P Mechanic Exam
Once you’ve met the educational and experience requirements, you’ll need to pass a series of exams administered by the FAA. These exams cover both airframe and powerplant maintenance and include written, oral, and practical exams.
5. Obtain your A&P Mechanic Certificate
Once you’ve passed the exams, you’ll be issued an A&P mechanic certificate by the FAA. This certificate will allow you to perform maintenance and repairs on aircraft, and you’ll need to renew it every two years by completing continuing education requirements.
Overall, becoming an A&P mechanic requires a combination of education, experience, and passing a series of exams. It’s a challenging but rewarding career that offers job security and opportunities for advancement. If you succeed in becoming an A&P mechanic, then you can expect to get a high salary every year.
