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 Louisiana. Furthermore, there are unique requirements, including differences in training programs and salary projections.
Knowing these will ensure candidates are as prepared as possible, resulting in the most straightforward and enjoyable experience.
To that end, we have outlined 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 can follow the steps below to start their careers.
Prerequisites
The major requirements for becoming an aircraft mechanic in Louisiana are similar to those in other states. First, candidates must be at least 18 years old and proficient in reading, writing, and understanding English.
Most training programs also require a high school diploma or GED for admission.
Completing an Accredited Training Program
The training program a candidate completes is critical to their success as an aircraft mechanic. The FAA oversees a rigorous accreditation process to ensure high standards across all programs.
Below, we list some accredited options for candidates in the state to consider.
On-the-Job Training
The main purpose of a training program is to provide practical experience. This ensures candidates are ready to work with real aircraft components upon graduation.
The total time spent in a practical environment ranges from 18 to 30 months, depending on the 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 earns the aviation maintenance technician certificate required to start a career as an aircraft mechanic in Louisiana. Military personnel can also obtain this license by completing the training program administered by the Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council (JSAMTCC).
Candidates who choose a specialty area must be examined in that area, while those who choose both specialties must pass both exams.
In addition to the regular certificate, the FAA issues an Inspection Authorization (IA) certificate for highly experienced aviation maintenance technicians. IA can expand the types of inspections and approvals a mechanic may perform under FAA regulations.
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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 Campus Only
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 - $10,468 per YearContact
(337) 421-6550
onestop@sowela.edu
South Louisiana Community College
Lafayette, LA Campus Only
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 per CreditContact
(337) 521-6649
Joel.Matte@solacc.edu
Southern University at Shreveport
Shreveport, LA Campus Only
Southern University at Shreveport offers aspiring aircraft mechanics a top aircraft maintenance program with airframe and powerplant technology courses.
Tuition
$1,309 - $2,700 per SemesterContact
(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 show that those in the top 10% earn an average annual salary of $120,123, while those in the bottom 10% earn $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 average annual salary of $94,351, and New Orleans, with $72,473.




