Aircraft Mechanic Schools in South Carolina

Like other states nationwide, South Carolina adopts a relatively direct process for aspiring aircraft mechanics. The process includes fulfilling several requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration.

To help interested candidates become familiar with this process, we have provided the article below, which touches upon the key steps and certification/license requirements.

We continue to ensure that candidates know where to go for quality education by listing some notable, accredited aviation maintenance technology training programs in South Carolina.

We then round up the article by providing an overview of the state’s salary and career outlook for fresh aircraft mechanics.

How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic in South Carolina

The following is a step-by-step breakdown of the requirements to become an aircraft mechanic in South Carolina.

Choose a Specialty

Before you train as a future aircraft mechanic in South Carolina, choosing a specialty or becoming familiar with the options is advisable. Currently, these include:

• Choosing the Airframe (A) specialty to work on an aircraft’s frame,
• Choosing the Powerplant (P) specialty to work on the engines and inner systems,
• Choosing the Airframe (A) and the Powerplant (P) ratings for an A&P certification.

Choose a Specialty

Before enrolling in a training program, candidates may want to choose a specialty, either the Airframe (A) specification or the Powerplant (P) specification. Those who don’t like choosing will also be glad to know they can choose both trainings.

Complete a Training Program

During training, candidates must acquire technical knowledge of theoretical concepts while becoming familiar with actual aircraft parts through hands-on training.

Furthermore, the best training programs ensure that candidates are well-prepared for the upcoming FAA examinations. Usually, these can be completed in 18 months (for one rating specialty) and 24 months (for both A&P ratings).

Pass the Licensing Examinations

Candidates who have graduated from FAA-accredited training will qualify for the licensing examinations. These exams include written, oral, and practical aspects for Airframe and Powerplant candidates.

Those who successfully pass the exams may consider themselves licensed aircraft mechanics.

Explore Trades with Similar Paths:

• Learn to become a CNC Machinist in South Carolina

Licensure & Certification Requirements

Aircraft mechanics in South Carolina do not have to worry about registering with a state body or passing a state regulatory examination to start their careers. The FAA is the only body responsible for overseeing the licensing and registration of aviation maintenance technicians and aircraft mechanics across the state.

The steps above are typically more than enough to meet the FAA licensing requirements. Military candidates may also pass through the military route by attending a training program on base.

Lastly, career growth is possible for an aircraft mechanic in South Carolina through the Inspection Authorized certification. This credential allows them to run their plants and oversee highly advanced maintenance and repair projects.

Top Aircraft Mechanic Schools in South Carolina

The following are some of the most prominent aircraft schools in South Carolina.

Explore Aircraft Mechanic Schools by City:

• Aircraft Mechanic Schools in Charlotte

Salary & Career Outlook

As a fresh aircraft mechanic in South Carolina, you can expect to start with a salary of around $81,189 — if you begin in a range closer to the average professional in the state or around $61,967 — if you’re in a range closer to the bottom 10%.

By optimizing factors such as experience, location, credentials, and establishment of employment, you may also increase your earnings to as high as $106,374, the figure given for the highest-earning top 10% of aircraft mechanics in the state.

Those looking to optimize their locations may move to higher-paying destinations across the state. They may consider securing employment in Charleston, the highest-paying city for aircraft mechanics in South Carolina, with an annual average salary of $91,361.

It is followed by Greenville with an average salary of $84,986 and Beaufort with an annual average salary of $84,628.