Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Delaware

Aircraft mechanics are in high demand because their skills are very specialized and valuable. Individuals in Delaware are encouraged to leverage their passion for aircraft and mechanical analysis to enter this profession and start what is hopefully a long-lasting, fulfilling career.

The steps required to enter the discipline can be confusing for those who are not fully prepared. This is why we have broken down the considerations below into easily digestible sections.

We begin with the basic requirements, then analyze the factors an individual should consider when choosing a training program. We also discuss licensing specifications and annual average salary projections, among other things.

How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Delaware

Candidates can start successful careers as aircraft mechanics in Delaware by following the steps below.

High School Diploma or GED

A high school diploma or GED is the perfect preparation for a career as an aviation mechanic in Delaware. It ensures candidates are strong in fundamental subjects and provides access to the best training programs that meet these requirements.

FAA Pathways

The Federal Aviation Administration specifies three major ways to become a certified aircraft mechanic. These include:

On-the-Job Training

For candidates seeking to enter the aviation maintenance industry with only on-the-job training, the FAA requires at least 30 months of full-time work experience under the supervision of a licensed mechanic or at an FAA-certified repair station.

This is for those who would like to work in both airframe and powerplant. Candidates selecting a single specification require 18 months of full-time experience.

Military Training

Gaining military experience in aircraft maintenance is also a path to becoming an aircraft mechanic. Candidates must also have at least 18 months of experience for one rating or 30 months of experience for both airframe and powerplant ratings.

Individuals going this route should be willing to provide their military service records, including training transcripts and work logs. Some institutions also offer free education for veterans looking to sharpen their skills.

Academic Training

Lastly, because it is relatively easy, the most common path to becoming an aircraft mechanic is to complete a formal program at an FAA-accredited aviation maintenance school. Students must spend 18 to 24 months in training.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• How to become an auto mechanic in Delaware

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Delaware residents who have completed an aviation maintenance technician program or fulfilled any of the other requirements listed above, and after passing the FAA certification examinations, can call themselves professional aircraft mechanics.

The examination is divided into three parts: a written exam assessing general theoretical knowledge, an oral exam conducted by a designated examiner, and a practical exam for hands-on assessment. Those who pass these examinations will be officially certified as aircraft mechanics in their chosen rating(s).

For career growth, candidates may pursue additional advanced certifications, such as the Inspection Authorization certification, which requires 3 years of experience, and the Avionics Technician certification for navigation and communications.

Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Delaware

Below are some programs that provide excellent education for aircraft mechanics in Delaware.

Explore aircraft mechanic schools in Delaware by city:

• Aircraft mechanic schools in Wilmington

Salary & Career Outlook

The annual average salary of an aircraft mechanic in Delaware is around $67,437 for candidates who are still among the bottom 10% in terms of yearly returns. Professionals who are among the top 10% in the state will be able to manage an annual average salary of $88,087, while the median earners make around $77,074 per year.

Professionals are assigned to specific salary brackets based on factors such as experience, location, and work environment. Regarding location, aircraft mechanics in Middletown earn the highest average annual salary in Delaware at $100,442. Those in Georgetown earn an average annual salary of $77,074.