The duties of an aircraft mechanic in Indiana range from supervising and managing aircraft operations to performing routine maintenance, inspections, and, of course, repairs on faulty parts. Acquiring the expertise to perform these duties involves attending a noteworthy training institution approved by the Federal Aviation Administration.
However, while training is always an important part of this journey, it is not the only key step to consider. To help aspiring aircraft mechanics in Indiana fulfill all the requirements needed to start a successful career in the field, we have provided the comprehensive guide below.
Here, candidates will discover everything they need to start their journey, specialize, and advance their careers smoothly.
How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Indiana
Future aircraft mechanics in Indiana would do well to follow the path below to launch their careers.
Step 1: Ensure you Meet the Basic Requirements
Anyone looking to become an aircraft mechanic in Indiana must first obtain a high school diploma. Those without a diploma may use a GED equivalent.
Furthermore, candidates are expected to be at least 18 years old. The FAA also mandates that all individuals be able to speak, read, and write English
Step 2: Complete Formal Training
Formal training for aspiring aircraft mechanics in Indiana is offered by an array of technical schools, private academies, and even potential employers. The destination through which a candidate obtains their training is not as important as ensuring that the FAA approves the destination.
Another point worth mentioning is that the FAA classifies aircraft mechanics as either Airframe (A) or Powerplant (P) professionals. While candidates may specialize in either of these fields, obtaining training in both areas is possible.
Step 3: Obtain Practical Experience
Practical experience is important for an aspiring aircraft mechanic in Indiana, not just because they will need it to pass their examinations and become certified, but because it helps them obtain real-world experience concerning the theoretical principles they are being taught.
Studying in either an Airframe (A) or Powerplant (P) specialization will require 10 months of training, including practical experience, while studying in both will require 30 months of training, including practical experience.
Step 4: Pass the FAA Examinations
The FAA exams test students in both the Airframe and Powerplant categories. They involve a written and practical test. Candidates qualify for the exam by meeting all the requirements above.
Military candidates may also qualify by passing the Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council Training Course.
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Licensure & Certification Requirements
Once a candidate passes either the Airframe or the Powerplant examination, they may consider themselves a full-blown aircraft mechanic in Indiana licensed by the FAA. Since the FAA certifies professionals nationally, candidates don’t have to worry about state or local registration and license.
An additional credential to consider for aircraft mechanics in Indiana is the Inspection Authorization certification. This is an advanced-level credential that aircraft mechanics need to establish their repair stations and work on high-level repair projects.
Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Indiana
Below are some top destinations where you can receive comprehensive training as an aspiring aircraft mechanic in Indiana.
Aviation Institute of Maintenance
Indianapolis, IN Campus + Online
Aviation Institute of Maintenance offers a strong aviation maintenance technology program that teaches general technical topics such as flight-controlled systems and engine systems, along with critical thinking, mathematical, communication, and management skills.
Email: infoaviation@aviationmaintenance.edu
Tuition
$47,410 - $56,710 per ProgramContact
(317) 243-4519
Email in Bio
Ivy Tech Community College
Fort Wayne, IN Campus Only
Ivy Tech Community College offers training for both airframe and powerplant ratings. While the Airframe and Powerplant concentrations training includes 64 credit hours and four semesters, the school also offers an accelerated option for those already licensed.
Tuition
$170 - $332 per CreditContact
(888) 489-5463
askfortwayne@ivytech.edu
Vincennes University
Indianapolis, IN Campus Only
Vincennes University in Vincennes is a popular destination for aspiring aircraft mechanics all over Indiana, thanks to its comprehensive curriculum, hands-on training, and experienced instructors.
Tuition
$211 per CreditContact
(812) 888-4313
VUAdmit@vinu.edu
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Salary & Career Outlook
The annual average salary of an aircraft mechanic in Indiana is $84,502. Of course, certain professionals earn much more than this figure, while some take home annual salaries that are still below the state average.
For instance, the top 10% of aircraft mechanics in Indiana (by salary) take home an annual average salary of $123,493, while the bottom 10% manage an annual average salary of $57,821.
Regarding location, the best place to practice as an aircraft mechanic in Indiana is Elkhart, with an annual average salary of $96,429. This is followed by Fort Wayne and Indianapolis, with annual average salaries of $89,966 and $87,182, respectively.