There
will always be a need for aviation mechanics (aviation
maintenance technicians) to service, repair, and
overhaul various aircraft components and systems. In recent
years, aviation maintenance has changed greatly because
of advances
in technology.
Aviation
maintenance mechanics (including airframe and power
plant technicians, avionics technicians, and instrument
repair personnel) have the important responsibility
of keeping airplanes and their equipment working safely
and efficiently. An aircraft mechanic may be licensed
or unlicensed. The licensed mechanic may receive a Mechanic
Certificate (with an airframe rating, power plant rating,
or rating for both) or a Repairman Certificate from
the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). FAA Mechanic
Certificates are issued upon successful completion of
oral, written, and practical examinations.
A aviation mechanic with an airframe, power plant,
or airframe and power plant (A&P) rating can work
only on the specific parts of the aircraft for which
he/she
is rated.
Similarly, a mechanic with an FAA Repairman Certificate
can work only on those parts of the aircraft that
the
certificate specifically allows, such as radio or instruments,
propellers, etc. The repair person who works on transmitting
equipment aboard the aircraft does not need a license
from the Federal Communications Commission; however,
experts encourage these individuals to take the FCC
exam because they may eventually become involved
in
satellites and satellite communication systems.
Aircraft mechanics employed by the airlines perform
either line maintenance work (for example, routine maintenance,
servicing, or emergency repairs at airline terminals)
or major repairs and periodic inspections at an airline’s
overhaul base. Aircraft mechanics in general aviation
perform maintenance and repair jobs similar to those
performed by airline mechanics, but they may work on
small piston-engine or larger turbine- powered aircraft,
depending on the type of business the facility specializes
in.
Avionics/aviation electronics technicians install and
maintain electronics equipment required for aircraft
navigation,
communication radios, weather radar systems, autopilots,
and other electronic devices. They work with radar,
radio, computers, wire communications systems, and
other electronic devices at airports and along the
network
of Federal airways. Preventive and corrective maintenance
is part of their jobs. Electronics technicians may
also
specialize in design, development, and evaluation of
new types of electronics equipment for the Federal
airways.
AvScholars.com is the student gateway to aviation. Your one-stop resource to aviation careers, aviation colleges, learn to fly, flight training, aviation scholarships, and more.
