An aircraft mechanic is often called upon to examine whether an airplane is in good shape to fly. If needed, they can also repair the aircraft’s components to ensure that it is once again in good condition to fly.
Aspiring aircraft mechanics in Georgia can study in some of the best training programs in the country. But to get started, there are a few prerequisites to have in mind.
Below we take a look at all of these.
We also explore the possible educational alternatives, certification and licensing requirements, the potential salary to look forward to, and the factors influencing this figure.
How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Georgia
The steps involved in becoming an aircraft mechanic in Georgia can be grouped into three categories. These include:
- Meeting the Prerequisites
- Qualifying for the FAA Examination
- Passing the FAA Examination
Meeting the Prerequisites
Candidates who wish to become aircraft mechanics must be at least 18 years old. This is according to the laws laid down by the Federal Aviation Administration.
They must also be able to read, write and speak the English language fluently.
Qualifying for the FAA Examination
To qualify for the FAA examination, you must go through one of three routes:
Accredited Training Program
The FAA certifies a handful of training programs all over the country to train aspiring aircraft mechanics and teach them all the skills they’d need to pass the Airframe (A) and Powerplant (P) examinations.
The best programs have modern facilities and aircrafts for students to practice the things they are being taught.
Civilian On-the-Job Training
Civilians who have learnt how to become an aircraft mechanic under the supervision of a licensed mechanic can also sit for the Airframe and Powerplant ratings tests without having to attend a formal training program.
They can do so as long as they have up to 30-hours of supervised work experience. Those who wish to sit for only one of the Airframe (A) or Powerplant (P) ratings tests can do so with just 18 months of experience.
Military On-the-Job Training
Lastly, military personnel who also have supervised work experience totaling up to 30 hours also qualify to sit for the licensing tests.
Passing the FAA Examination
The FAA examination for aircraft mechanics consists of oral, written, and practical sections. The tests for each rating can be completed in about 8 hours.
After passing the FAA examinations, individuals can then go on to secure employment in their establishment of choice.
Consider Trades with Similar Paths:
Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Georgia
1. Middle Georgia State College
School of Aviation, Eastman campus, GA 31023
Middle Georgia State College’s Eastman campus is one of the first destinations most aspiring aircraft mechanics in Georgia consider. And for good reasons too. The school’s aviation maintenance program has experienced instructors, a fantastic facility, and numerous successful graduates.
The school also provides financial aid.
2. Aviation School of Excellence
2626 Madison Highway, Suite 202, Valdosta, GA 31601
Another great aviation mechanic program in Georgia, the Aviation School of Excellence, helps students prepare excellently for their FAA Airframe and Powerplant licensing.
The school is also known for its affordability.
3. Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Atlanta - Metro Duluth GA 30096
The Aviation Institute of Maintenance in Georgia offers students the opportunity to learn in state-of-the-art facilities during the day and evening sessions.
Students can also choose between two distinct Aviation Maintenance Technology programs - the Aviation Maintenance Technical Engineer program (AMTE) and the Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) program.
Graduates qualify to take the FAA’s Airframe and Powerplant tests.
Explore Aircraft Mechanic Schools by City:
Georgia State Licensure & Certification Requirements
Aviation mechanics must provide proof of continuing education every two years to keep their FAA licenses. They must have completed 16 hours of additional training two years before their license renewal is due.
For the continuing education to be valid, aircraft mechanics are also expected to have worked for at least 1000 hours within the last two years.
Salary & Career Outlook
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are about 13,100 openings each year for aircraft mechanics and technicians. This figure indicates a 6% growth from the last decade and is set to continue until 2031.
The annual average salary for aircraft mechanics in Georgia is $67,271. Those who fall in the top 10% of earners earn as high as $96,338, while those who fall in the bottom 10% still take home an annual average salary of around $46,973.
Canton, Atlanta, and Americus — with annual average salaries of $109,423, $68,837, and $66,375, respectively — are Georgia’s three highest-paying cities for aircraft mechanics. They are followed by Albany and Savannah, with annual average salaries of $66,078 and $65,921 to round up the top five.
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