As an aspiring aircraft mechanic in Louisiana, you must be prepared to go through a handful of important steps to get your career started correctly. Because the Federal Aviation Administration regulates the field on a federal level, many steps in this process are common across all states.
However, certain steps are unique to the state of Louisiana. Furthermore, there are unique requirements, such as the difference in training programs and salary projections.
Knowing these will ensure that candidates are as prepared as possible, leading to the most straightforward and enjoyable experience.
To this end, we have provided all the key steps and requirements to become an aircraft mechanic in Louisiana below. We have also included the salary projection, certification requirements, and top accredited training programs to consider.
How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Louisiana
Aspiring aircraft mechanics in Louisiana may follow the steps below to start their careers correctly.
Prerequisites
The major requirements for becoming an aircraft mechanic in Louisiana are similar in other states. First, candidates must ensure they are at least 18 years old and proficient in reading, understanding, and writing English.
Most training programs will also ask for a high school diploma or GED before admission can be granted.
Completing an Accredited Training Program
The training program from which a candidate graduates is critical for their success as an aircraft mechanic. The FAA oversees a thorough accreditation process to ensure a high standard across all programs.
Below, we list some accredited options that candidates in the state can consider.
On-the-Job Training
The main purpose of a training program is to provide practical experience. This ensures that candidates are ready to work with actual aircraft components as soon as they graduate.
The total time spent in a practical environment ranges between 18 months to 30 months, according to specialty.
Those who choose to specialize in either Airframe (A) or powerplant (P) will receive practical training for around 18 months, while those who choose to focus on both areas will receive training for 30 months.
FAA Examinations
The FAA examination tests candidates on theoretical and practical aspects of aviation maintenance technology. Those who have completed an accredited training program will automatically qualify for this examination.
Licensure & Certification Requirements
Passing the FAA examination led to acquiring the aviation maintenance technician license needed to start a career as an aircraft mechanic in Louisiana. Military personnel can also acquire this license by passing the training program overseen by the Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council (JSAMTCC).
Candidates who choose a specialty area must be examined in this area, while those who choose both specialties must pass both.
In addition to the regular license, the FAA issues an Inspection Authorized (IA) license for highly experienced aviation maintenance technicians who want to run their garages.
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Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Louisiana
The following are some high-quality aircraft mechanic training programs in Louisiana.
SOWELA Technical Community College
Lake Charles, LA Online + Campus
Interested applicants will be glad that the Federal Aviation Administration and the Association of Technology Management and Applied Engineering approve all the aviation maintenance programs at SOWELA Technical Community College. They include strong airframe and powerplant programs with great hands-on training.
Tuition
$3,335 - $10,468Contact
(337) 421-6550
info@sowela.edu
South Louisiana Community College
Lafayette, LA Online + Campus
South Louisiana Community College offers an Aviation Maintenance Technology program that can be completed in 2 years. It includes topics in repair, overhaul, and other key maintenance jobs.
Tuition
$133 - $228 per CreditContact
(801) 957-4073
stps@slcc.edu
Southern University at Shreveport
Shreveport, LA Online + Campus
Southern University at Shreveport offers aspiring aircraft mechanics a top aircraft maintenance program with airframe and powerplant technology courses.
Tuition
$319 - $660 per CreditContact
(318) 670-9426
admissions@susla.edu
Explore aircraft mechanic schools in Louisiana by city:
Salary & Career Outlook
An average aircraft mechanic in Louisiana (in the midpoint of earners) will most likely take home an annual average salary of $84,439, according to data reviewed from a survey of aircraft mechanics in the state.
Data also shows that those among the highest earners in the top 10% will take home an annual average salary of $120,123, while those among the lowest earners in the bottom 10% earn an annual average salary of $59,355.
Experience and location are among the most important criteria for determining the annual average salary of aircraft mechanics in Louisiana. Based on location alone, Lake Charles is the highest-paying city for these professionals in the state, with an annual average salary of $103,777.
It is followed by Shreveport, with an annual average salary of $94,351, and New Orleans, with an annual average salary of $72,473.