How Much Do Aviation Technicians Make?
Aviation technicians, also known as aircraft mechanics, are responsible for the maintenance and repair of aircraft to ensure they are airworthy and safe to fly. They are highly skilled and trained professionals who require both theoretical knowledge and practical skills to perform their job efficiently.
Salaries of Aviation Technicians
The salaries of aviation technicians can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, certification, and employer. In the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for aviation technicians was $66,440 as of May 2020. However, salaries can range from around $35,000 for entry-level positions to over $100,000 for experienced and certified mechanics.
Average Salaries by Industry
- Commercial airlines: $78,230
- Flight schools: $66,440
- Helicopter maintenance: $72,430
- Private aircraft maintenance: $63,440
- Government agencies: $74,130
Salaries by Location
- New York-Newark, NY-NJ-PA: $83,150
- Los Angeles, CA: $79,390
- Seattle-Tacoma, WA: $74,430
- Miami-Fort Lauderdale, FL: $72,380
- Chicago-Naperville, IL: $70,890
Certification and Training
Aviation technicians who are certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or the International Air Transport Association (IATA) tend to earn higher salaries than those without certifications. Here are some FAA certifications and their average salary ranges:
- FAA Certification: $68,000 – $88,000
- IATA Certification: $65,000 – $90,000
- Journeyman Mechanic Certification: $60,000 – $80,000
- Apprentice Mechanic Certification: $55,000 – $75,000
Average Salaries by Experience
- Entry-level (0-2 years of experience): $35,000 – $55,000
- Experienced (2-5 years of experience): $45,000 – $65,000
- Advanced (5-10 years of experience): $60,000 – $80,000
- Senior (10+ years of experience): $70,000 – $100,000
Job Outlook and Future Salary Growth
The demand for aviation technicians is expected to grow 14% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth will be driven by an increased demand for air travel, the need for regular aircraft maintenance, and the mandatory retirement of older aircraft fleet.
Conclusion
The salaries of aviation technicians vary depending on factors such as location, experience, certification, and employer. Certification and training can significantly impact salary ranges, with FAA-certified technicians earning higher salaries than those without certification. The demand for aviation technicians is expected to grow, providing opportunities for professional development and salary growth in the future.
TABLE: Average Salaries for Aviation Technicians by Certification
| Certification | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| FAA Certification | $68,000 – $88,000 |
| IATA Certification | $65,000 – $90,000 |
| Journeyman Mechanic Certification | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| Apprentice Mechanic Certification | $55,000 – $75,000 |
TABLE: Average Salaries for Aviation Technicians by Experience
| Experience | Average Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (0-2 years) | $35,000 – $55,000 |
| Experienced (2-5 years) | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| Advanced (5-10 years) | $60,000 – $80,000 |
| Senior (10+ years) | $70,000 – $100,000 |
