There are so many reasons to consider becoming an aircraft mechanic in Pennsylvania. Apart from the fact that professionals in this field enjoy an impressive average salary, they also get to break down and build up components of one of the most fascinating machines in our modern world.
To become an aircraft mechanic in Pennsylvania, much training is needed. Individuals must also fulfill a few requirements set by the federal and state regulatory bodies.
However, you can handle being overwhelmed because, in the guide below, you’ll find everything you need to get started. By the time you’re done, you’ll be able to kickstart your career journey directly, assuredly, and straightforwardly.
How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in Pennsylvania
Below are the steps involved in becoming an aircraft mechanic in Pennsylvania.
Step 1: Ensure that You Meet the Basic Requirements
The main step in becoming an aircraft mechanic is passing the Federal Aviation Administration’s airframe and powerplant exams. Before you can even think of sitting for this exam, however, you must be at least 18 years old.
The FAA also specifies that candidates must be able to speak, read and write the English language fluently.
Step 2: Educational Requirements
The FAA specifies two distinct approaches to taking the Airframe and Powerplant licensing examination. The first is the training approach, while the second is the experience approach.
Those with experience on the job will do well to consider the training option. This involves applying for admission into an accredited training program.
Luckily, as we’ll see below, there are quite a few options in and around the state to consider.
Step 3: Experience Requirements
You don’t have to graduate from a training program before you can sit for the Airframe and Powerplant test. The FAA allows those with prior experience receiving training on the job to also sit for the exams.
Before they can sit for both rating tests, however, they must have accrued 30 months of supervised work experience. Military personnel who have also worked for the same time may also register for the tests.
Candidates who wish to sit for only one of the Airframe and Powerplant rating tests can do so with just 18 months of work experience.
Step 4: Passing the Tests
Lastly, once you qualify, the next step is to sit for and pass the FAA tests. The tests are divided into oral, written, and practical aspects. They cover around 43 technical subjects.
Candidates must pass all of the tests within 24 months. Usually, tests for just one certificate take around 8 hours to finish.
Consider Trades with Similar Paths:
Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Pennsylvania
1. Aviation Institute of Maintenance
3001 Grant Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19114
Aircraft Maintenance students at the Philadelphia Campus of the Aviation Institute of Maintenance can choose between the Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) program and the Aviation Maintenance Technician Avionics (AMTA) program.
The Commission of Career Schools and Colleges accredited the school, and the FAA approved the program.
2. Pennsylvania College of Technology
One College Avenue, Williamsport, PA 17701
The Pennsylvania College of Technology boasts a 50,000 sq ft ultra-modern facility used exclusively to train aspiring aviation and avionics technicians.
Students may choose the Bachelor of Science in Aviation Maintenance Technology, the Associate of Applied Science in Aviation Technology, or the Certificate in Aviation Maintenance Technology.
3. Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics (PIA)
Allegheny County Airport West Mifflin PA 15122
Lastly, Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics is another impressive destination to consider. The school has been around for 85 years and has produced numerous successful aviation mechanics.
Through the help of experienced instructors and a fleet of modern aircraft, students learn how to carry out routine repairs and troubleshoot complex challenges.
Explore Aircraft Mechanic Schools by City:
State Licensure and Certification Requirements
The FAA is responsible for certifying aircraft mechanics, meaning aspiring professionals can avoid concerning themselves with any other state licensing body.
Following the steps above will help you get licensed by the FAA, but to keep your license, you must ensure that you have worked at least 1000 hours within the last two years and participate in continuing education by completing 16 hours of additional training every two years.
Salary & Career Outlook
As an aircraft mechanic in Pennsylvania, you may look forward to an annual average salary of $85,704, slightly above the national average. Experience, location, and employer can influence how much an aircraft mechanic makes every year.
Those who have optimized these factors and have found themselves in the top 10% of earners in the field usually take home as high as $118,633 per year, while those in the bottom 10% earn an annual average salary of $61,915.
Sorting by location, aircraft mechanics in Allentown, Philadelphia, and Lancaster are the highest paid in the state, with annual average salaries of $99,862, $98,056, and $87,307, respectively.
Pittsburgh and Washington round up the top five with $80,406 at $72,426 in annual average salaries.
Related Articles
Related Careers
Top Schools Near Me
