How to Become an Aircraft Mechanic
Keep aircraft airworthy: inspect, repair, and overhaul engines and airframes under strict FAA standards. It typically requires a postsecondary certificate (faa-approved), with a median salary of $79,870 per year and about average projected job growth.
Median pay
$79,870/yr
Job growth
3%
Openings / yr
11,300
Majors that lead here
Common majors include Aviation Maintenance Technology.
Key skills
- Airframe and Powerplant Repair
- Inspection
- Troubleshooting
- Regulatory Compliance
- Documentation
Helpful certifications
- FAA A&P (Airframe and Powerplant) certificate
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
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Work-life balance
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Stress level
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Satisfaction
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Related careers
- Air Traffic Controller$148,080 median
- Commercial Pilot$123,220 median
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Aircraft Mechanic make?
The median pay for an Aircraft Mechanic is $79,870 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2025). Actual pay varies with experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become an Aircraft Mechanic?
The usual entry point is a postsecondary certificate (faa-approved). Common majors are Aviation Maintenance Technology.
Is Aircraft Mechanic a growing field?
The BLS projects about average demand for this role, about 3% over the decade, with roughly 11,300 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does an Aircraft Mechanic use most?
Common skills for this role are Airframe and Powerplant Repair, Inspection, Troubleshooting, Regulatory Compliance, and Documentation.
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.