Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Virginia

Along with inspecting aircraft systems, aircraft mechanics in Virginia are responsible for diagnosing critical issues, reading and interpreting manuals, and carrying out repairs to ensure that an aircraft can fly again.

Aspiring aircraft mechanics in the state must adhere to specific quality standards that require a handful of preparatory steps before securing employment. Below, we look at the significant requirements for kick-starting an aircraft mechanic career in Virginia and other vital information that will surely come in handy.

How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Virginia

Aspiring aircraft mechanics in Virginia may consider the steps below to kick-start their careers.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

The FAA sets the basic requirements for becoming an aircraft mechanic in Virginia. Interested individuals must be at least 18 years old and have solid control of the English language. A strong foundation in physics, electricity, and technical drawings will also come in handy.

Step 2: Meet the Examination Qualification Criteria

There are three ways to qualify for the FAA’s certification exams. The first is to graduate from an approved training program in the state, the second is to acquire real-world experience, and the third is to complete the military training program.

graduating from an approved training program provides a solid theoretical foundation with much practical training. These programs take between 18 months and 24 months to graduate.

Those who choose the real-world experience route must acquire at least 18 months of training to qualify for a specialization or 30 months to be eligible for both fields.

Step 3: Prepare for the FAA Examinations

Candidates who attend accredited training programs will be prepared for the FAA exam throughout their training. Additional training materials are also available for aviation maintenance technicians through the official FAA web page.

Step 4: Pass the FAA Examination

The FAA examination is divided into three sections – written, oral, and practical. Knowing which specialization you are going for is essential before taking the exam. Those who go for the airframe or powerplant specialization will undergo different test conditions than those who go for both.

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Licensure & Certification Requirements

Virginia does not have any certification or licensing requirements for aircraft mechanics. This duty falls solely on the Federal Aviation Administration. By following the above steps and passing the FAA examinations, candidates should have done enough to receive the FAA license to start applying for jobs.

It is advisable to join professional organizations such as the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association to increase their chances. Aircraft mechanics in Virginia who have spent three years on the job may also seek advanced credentials such as the Inspection Authorization (IA) certification.

Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Virginia

Below are some top programs for aspiring aircraft mechanics in Virginia to consider.

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Salary & Career Outlook

Virginia Aircraft mechanics earn an annual salary of $91,862, a figure 13% above the national average. Of course, this figure can vary depending on a handful of factors, the most important of which are experience, location, and employer.

Virginia’s highest-paid aircraft mechanics earn up to $133,802 in annual average salary, while the lowest-paid take home an average yearly salary of around $63,069.

As mentioned earlier, location plays a huge part in determining the annual average salary for an aspiring aircraft mechanic in Virginia. Currently, the highest-paid cities include Sterling ($122,015), Arlington ($89,852), and Richmond ($84,165).

Newport News and Dulles round out the top five with annual average salaries of $82,157 and $81,309, respectively.