Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Maine

An aspiring aircraft mechanic in Maine needs to understand the fundamental requirements for admission to a training program and what to look for in a program. Given the importance of FAA approval, candidates must narrow their list of possible training destinations to approved programs only.

The guide below should help candidates achieve all of these objectives straightforwardly. We have outlined the general steps to follow and provided a concise list of top training programs that meet these requirements.

Furthermore, readers will find certification and Licensing requirements, as well as average annual salary ranges, based on a few key factors.

How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Maine

The following steps are needed to enter the aviation maintenance discipline as a resident of Maine.

Earn a High School Diploma

Earning a high school diploma is a crucial basic requirement for aspiring aircraft mechanics, as it provides a strong foundation. Elective courses in mechanical sciences and engineering are also very important.

A GED equivalent can work in the place of a high school diploma.

Classroom & Practical Training

For Maine residents seeking to combine academic and practical education to launch their careers, attending an aviation maintenance technician school is the ideal choice. Candidates must select an approved program to qualify for FAA certification examinations.

The curriculum for these programs typically covers general, airframe, and powerplant subjects. Students may focus on one specific rating (airframe or powerplant) if they wish.

On-the-Job Training

All approved aviation maintenance technician programs provide students with practical education. However, it is possible to become an aircraft mechanic without attending an academic program and instead acquiring work experience “on the job” under a licensed mechanic or at an FAA-approved repair station.

Military Education

Lastly, veterans who have experience in a military aviation maintenance program can leverage their skills to qualify for the aircraft mechanic certification examinations.

Those who wish to pursue this approach may qualify for a single rating after 18 months or both ratings after 30 months, depending on experience. Additionally, veterans who wish to pursue further aviation maintenance education can apply to civilian programs.

Explore trades with similar paths:

• Learn how to become an auto mechanic in Maine

Licensure & Certification Requirements

After qualifying for the FAA certification examinations through any of the avenues above, candidates should prepare to sit for both written, oral, and practical examinations for their chosen ratings. This means, for example, that someone who chooses to focus on the airframe rating must complete written, oral, and practical examinations in this rating.

Consequently, candidates who have chosen both ratings must complete all the examinations for both ratings.

After certification, aircraft mechanics in Maine can secure employment and start practicing legally. They can also pursue advanced certifications, such as the Inspection Authorization (IA), to enhance career opportunities.

They will be eligible to take this certification after gaining substantial experience as an A&P mechanic.

Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Maine

Below are some of the best schools to study as a prospective aviation mechanic in Maine.

Explore aircraft mechanic schools in Maine by city:

• Aircraft mechanic schools in Portland

Salary & Career Outlook

As a new aircraft mechanic in the state of Maine, it is possible to end the year with an average salary ranging from $55,827 to $89,499. The group of professionals earning an average annual salary of $55,827 is among the lowest-paid in the state.

Conversely, those who end the year with an average salary of $89,499 are considered to be among the top 10%. Most aircraft mechanics in Maine will not fall into either extreme category but will be closer to the middle, with an average annual salary of approximately $70,686.

Factors such as experience, location, employer, and continuing education all influence the amount an aircraft mechanic earns in a given state. Lyman and Brunswick have the highest average annual salaries, at $82,809 and $81,930, respectively.

Aircraft mechanics in Portland are also well-rewarded. The average annual salary in this area was estimated at approximately $80,268.