How Long is Aircraft Mechanic School?
If you are considering a career as an aircraft mechanic, you might be wondering how long it takes to complete the training required to become a certified airline mechanic. The answer, however, is not so simple. The length of aircraft mechanic school can vary depending on several factors.
What is an aircraft mechanic?
Before discussing the length of aircraft mechanic school, it’s important to understand what an aircraft mechanic does. An aircraft mechanic, also known as an aviation maintenance technician or A&P mechanic, is responsible for performing routine inspections, maintenance, and repair of aircraft and their parts. They work on civilian and military aircraft, drones, and even spacecraft to ensure they are airworthy and safe to fly. To become an aircraft mechanic, you need to meet certain educational and certification requirements.
Types of Certifications
There are different certifications available for aircraft mechanics, and the length of school required to obtain one of these certifications can affect the overall duration of school. Here are some common certifications:
- AIR Frame and Power (Airframe and Powerplant, A&P) Certification: This is the most common and highest level of certification an aircraft mechanic can obtain.
- Inspection Authorization (IA) Certification: This certification allows mechanics with an A&P certification to perform inspections on aircraft maintenance.
How Long does Aircraft Mechanic School usually Take?
The duration of aircraft mechanic school usually varies between 12-24 months, depending on the type of certification desired. Here’s a rough breakdown of what you might expect:
| Certification Type | School Duration |
|---|---|
| Basic A&P Certification (Part 65) | 12-18 months |
| Advanced A&P Certification (Part 147) | 18-20 months |
| Inspection Authorization (IA) Certification (in addition to A&P) | 3-6 months |
Education and Training Requirements
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires aircraft mechanic students to complete a specified amount of classroom and Practical training before taking the certification exam. Here are the usual education and training requirements for aircraft mechanic school:
Classroom Training:
- 375 Hours (Basic A&P Certificate)
- 225 Hours (Advanced A&P Certificate)
Practical Training:
- A minimum of 18 weeks (Basic A&P Certificate)
- A minimum of 12 weeks (Advanced A&P Certificate)
