Becoming an Aircraft Mechanic

The world is currently facing a mechanic shortage, and this is particularly felt in the United States, the birthplace of aviation. According to the Aviation Technician Education Council, we were set to see a 10% shortage of mechanics in 2025, with a gap of 4,200 certified mechanics by the end of the decade, and that's only for the commercial aviation industry. GA is also feeling the deficit of mechanics with long appointment lead times, back-orders on new production aircraft, and extended down time for their planes in maintenance.

But how do you become an aircraft mechanic? Why is this a good industry to get in to? What can you expect from the job? Here, you'll find answers to these questions and some insight into the life of an A&P.

What is an A&P?

"I'm an A&P," is what you'll hear most aircraft technicians refer to themselves as, however it's actually not a title, but a license. Two licenses, in fact - an Airframe License and a Power Plant License. You must hold one of these certifications in order to sign off maintenance as airworthy, respective to either the engine or airframe.

To get an A&P, there are two options: attending an A&P school, or becoming an apprentice. Schools that provide aircraft mechanic curriculum are considered Aviation Maintenance Technician Schools (AMTS), and will provide the required 18 months of experience and education to take the test. The FAA requires some additional time when completing an apprenticeship - you must have 30 months of practical experience performing the duties associated with being an aircraft mechanic in order to qualify for the test.

Just in Texas, I can think of four AMTSs off the top of my head. These programs usually run about the same cost as an associates degree from a community or local college, depending on what is provided (tools, supplies, etc.). Apprenticeships can be much harder to find, as you're looking for a shop that will pay you a wage, while also training and supervising your work. The shop must have the bandwidth to support your education while maintaining safety and throughput. You will also have to seek some additional resources for unusual or not-as-well-practiced skills the shop might not be able to provide experience for.

Taking the Tests

Keyword here is 'tests.' There are five tests you must pass to get your licenses: three written tests, and two oral and practical tests. The Airframe, Power Plant, and General Knowledge tests can be taken at any qualified testing center, and there are locations all across the US. The Airframe and Power Plant Oral and Practical tests can be administered by a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME).

Getting Down to Business

Finding employment during a mechanic shortage shouldn't be too complicated, right? For the most part, you would be correct. Most shops are hiring two or three mechanics at a time as the industry continues to grow. However, you must be prepared to put in the work.

Every shop is different, from their workflow organization to the regulations they operate under. Just like any other job, the employer will be looking for the best fit for their team, and you should be looking for the best fit for you. If you're looking to focus on avionics work, you probably don't want to be at a shop that only does 100 hours and oil changes.

Aircraft mechanics, on average, make around $62,000 per year in Texas, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This can vary, of course, by state and level of experience of the technician. Most opportunities in the General Aviation sector are going to be full time, eight to five type jobs. In Commercial Aviation, i.e. airlines or freight or charter, there are more spots available for shifts and part time, as the commercial industry doesn't stop running.

Other Items to Note

You can also become eligible to take the A&P tests if you have qualifying military service experience. Many mechanics finish their tenure with the military and transfer their hours of training, pass the tests, and are licensed before they move off base.

Being an aircraft mechanic is not just for men. Currently, women only make up 2.9% of the aviation technician work force, as cited by the Aviation Technician Education Council in their 2025 Pipeline Report. There is significant untapped potential in a female mechanic population that could benefit the industry as a whole.

Aviation is a growing industry; projected to increase by about 13% over the next ten years. Job security as an aircraft mechanic has never been more firm. Investing in this career now could mean a lasting future for many years to come.

All the numbers say the same thing: aviation needs mechanics. With a relatively low barrier to entry, becoming an aircraft mechanic can be an ideal career for many young Americans. There is a huge opportunity for immediate employment, job security, and sustainable wages. Whether it's via a school program or an apprenticeship, give maintenance, and the wonderful aviation community, an opportunity to help you succeed.

Come by sometime and say hello. We're always happy to help.

-- The Chuck's Team

By Erin Murphy, March 18th, 2026