How To Become A Plane Mechanic

Learn how to become a plane mechanic and your skills will help you make a living. Plane mechanics work on planes performing diagnostic procedures, preventive maintenance and repairs. Becoming a plane mechanic will require you to go through extensive training and certification.

Things you'll need:

• High school diploma or GED
• Be at least eighteen years of age
• Federal Aviation Adminstration (FAA) certification

1. Graduate from high school or obtain a GED. Complete a two-year or four-year college degree program to improve your chances of becoming a plane mechanic. Try to get your degree in a field that is closely related to airframe mechanics or power plant mechanics.
2. Study and read as much information as you can about how to become a plane mechanic. Use the internet and the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) website to help you locate more information. Find currently employed plane mechanics and ask them what they had to do to become a plane mechanic.
3. Get training from a certified FAA aviation maintenance technical school or vocational school. There are 170 of these schools in the United States. Decide what area you will like to specialize in. An airframe mechanic will work on all parts of a plane except the instruments panels, propellers and power plants. Power plant mechanics will work on engines, turbines and some propellers.
4. Complete 1900 hours minimum or twelve to 24 months of practical aviation maintenance training approved and required by the FAA. Keep in mind the FAA issues certifications for both airframe and power plant mechanics. You will have to pass written and practical tests to become a licensed plane mechanic. You can also become a plane mechanic by on-the-job training, but you still have to meet the FAA requirements.