Become an Aircraft Mechanic

The easiest and cheapest way financially is to join the military and make sure the skill you get is aviation mechanic, jet engine mechanic, crew chief or some other rated aircraft specialty. The other way is to go to an accredited school and get a associates degree and pass the FAA exam. Once you pass the exam you will be issued an A&P license and will be able to begin your career in aviation.

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The Military

All the military branches have aviation training. The Navy has the most aircraft in its inventory and the Army has fixed winged aircraft but have more helicopters. After completing basic training the solder/airman/seamen is sent to an aviation school. The specialty will determine the length of the school. Once school is completed you will be assigned to an aviation base or a ship depending on the branch.

Once you reach your duty station you will get on the job training. You follow technical manuals on repairs. The technical manuals will explain how to repair and the tools you will need. It will also have a list of the materials you will need and what rating you need to repair the particular project. If you decide to leave the military the transition to civilian aviation is relatively easy.

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Civilian Aviation

Civilian aviation is governed by the FAA (Federal Avation Administration). Most aviation mechanic jobs will require you to have an A&P license. Civilian aviation can be broke down it to three classes.

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Commercial

Aviation that carries passengers for pay. These aircraft are going to be some of the biggest in the industry. Referred to by many workers as “widebody”

Corporate

Aircraft owned by corporations or wealthy people. The also can be owned by small airlines and air taxis. They usually have better facilities and attract many mechanics because of this. The aircraft are usually medium sized to small but there are a few “widebodies” in the corporate aviation world.

Private

Small aircraft owned by individuals and schools .Also can be used by companies like oil refiners to ferry personnel to oil rigs.”Helicopters”

Civilian aviation has a wide range of pay scales. With five years experience you should expect to make $35,000 to $50,000 per annum.

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