Aspiring aircraft mechanics in Mississippi must meet FAA requirements to secure employment. However, it also pays to understand some unique aspects of entering this profession in the state, such as the top training programs to consider.
If you are an aspiring aircraft mechanic in Mississippi looking for a detailed guide on how to enter this profession, you have come to the right place. The guide below analyzes key details, from educational expectations to licensing exams and career growth.
We also review the top training programs for aircraft mechanics in Mississippi, along with the annual average salary, taking relevant factors into account.
How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Mississippi
Aspiring aircraft mechanics in Mississippi must follow the guide below to launch their careers on a strong foundation.
Transferable Attributes and Basic Requirements
Aircraft mechanics in Mississippi have a better chance of starting their careers if they already hold a high school diploma or GED and possess a basic knowledge of science and engineering.
Transferable attributes like dexterity, critical thinking, effective communication, and comprehension skills are also valuable.
Training Options
The FAA allows the following training options for aircraft mechanics:
Academic Program
The first step to meeting eligibility for the FAA mechanic certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration is to attend an academic program. Many aviation maintenance technician schools are FAA-authorized to teach candidates everything they need to become successful aircraft mechanics.
Candidates can expect to spend a couple of years in training, earn an associate degree, and receive the best preparation for certification examinations. In an upcoming section, we explore some of the best aviation maintenance technician schools for Mississippi residents.
On-the-Job Training
It is also common to gain work experience at a certified repair station and ultimately qualify for FAA certification exams. In fact, it is also possible to learn directly from a licensed aircraft mechanic in order to pursue certification.
Of course, candidates must ensure their training is not limited to observing technicians at work; they must also practice these principles independently, as they will be expected to do during the certification exam.
Explore trades with similar paths:
Licensure & Certification Requirements
Certification from the Federal Aviation Administration is all that is needed to practice as an aircraft mechanic anywhere in the country, including in the state of Mississippi. Candidates must remember the most important thing: passing the FAA certification examinations.
These exams are relevant for candidates pursuing either the airframe or powerplant ratings. Of course, professionals seeking both classifications must be prepared to pass the examination in both areas.
Each includes an oral, written, and practical segment.
After 3 years of experience as an aircraft mechanic with basic certification, candidates in Mississippi may pursue the Inspection Authorization (IA) credential for more advanced duties.
Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Mississippi
The following are some of the top training programs for future aircraft mechanics in Mississippi.
Northwest Mississippi Community College
Southaven, MS Campus Only
Northwest Mississippi Community College offers an aviation mechanic training program designed to provide hands-on proficiency in aircraft maintenance and repair.
Tuition
$4,780 - $7,080 per YearContact
(662) 280-6183
ccooper@northwestms.edu
Hinds Community College
Raymond, MS Campus Only
Hinds Community College offers an aviation maintenance technology program that spans four semesters. The program equips students with expertise in aircraft inspection, repair, servicing, and engine overhaul.
Tuition
$1,850 - $3,375 per SemesterContact
(601) 857-3300
Elizabeth.Robbins@hindscc.edu
Pearl River Community College
Kiln, MS Campus Only
Pearl River Community College offers an Aviation Maintenance Technology program structured to meet FAA Part 147 requirements.
Tuition
$2,800 - $4,000 per SemesterContact
(601) 403-1000
aviation@prcc.edu
Explore aircraft mechanic schools in Mississippi by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
The average annual salary for an aircraft mechanic in Mississippi depends on experience, location, professional credentials, certification level, and other factors. Based on these factors, professionals can be categorized into three broad groups.
The first category comprises the bottom 10%, with an average annual salary of $71,512. The second category includes median earners, who earn approximately $90,648 per year.
Finally, in the top category, we have the highest-paid aircraft mechanics in Mississippi, who earn an average annual salary of up to $114,906.
By location, Gulfport is where professionals in this field earn the highest salaries in Mississippi, with an average annual salary of $101,870. Columbus, with an annual average salary of $98,195, and Greenville, with an annual average salary of $98,164, round out the top three.




