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How long is aviation mechanic school?

How Long is Aviation Mechanic School?

Aviation mechanics, also known as aircraft mechanics or A&P mechanics, play a crucial role in the aviation industry. They are responsible for maintaining, repairing, and inspecting aircraft to ensure they are airworthy and safe to fly. If you’re interested in pursuing a career as an aviation mechanic, you’re likely wondering how long it takes to complete the training program. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of the typical length of aviation mechanic school and what you can expect during your training.

Program Length

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The length of aviation mechanic school can vary depending on the institution and the type of certification you’re pursuing. In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires that students complete a minimum of 1,900 hours of training to become a certified aircraft mechanic. This can be broken down into:

  • Ground school: 300-400 hours of classroom instruction, covering topics such as aircraft systems, mechanics, and safety procedures.
  • Practical training: 1,500-1,600 hours of hands-on training, where you’ll work on actual aircraft and perform routine maintenance, repairs, and inspections.

On average, aviation mechanic school programs can take anywhere from 12 to 24 months to complete, depending on the institution and the student’s prior experience. Here’s a breakdown of the typical program lengths:

Institution TypeProgram Length
FAA-approved colleges12-18 months
Private flight schools12-24 months
Military programs6-12 months

Full-time vs. Part-time Programs

Aviation mechanic school programs can be structured as full-time or part-time, which can affect the overall program length. Full-time programs typically require students to attend classes and training sessions for 40 hours per week, while part-time programs may require students to attend classes and training sessions for 20 hours per week.

Certificate vs. Degree

Aviation mechanic schools may offer different types of certifications or degrees, which can also affect the program length. For example:

  • Certificate programs: These programs are designed to prepare students for the FAA certification exam and typically take 12-18 months to complete.
  • Associate’s degree programs: These programs combine the certificate program with additional coursework and may take 18-24 months to complete.
  • Bachelor’s degree programs: These programs may include additional coursework in areas such as aviation management, business, or engineering and may take 2-4 years to complete.

Online and Hybrid Programs

With the rise of online learning, some aviation mechanic schools now offer online or hybrid programs. These programs allow students to complete ground school and some practical training online, while still requiring hands-on training at a physical location.

Key Takeaways

  • Aviation mechanic school programs typically take 12-24 months to complete.
  • The program length can vary depending on the institution, type of certification, and student’s prior experience.
  • Full-time programs typically take less time to complete than part-time programs.
  • Certificate programs are designed to prepare students for the FAA certification exam and typically take 12-18 months to complete.
  • Associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs combine the certificate program with additional coursework and may take 18-24 months or 2-4 years to complete, respectively.

Conclusion

Becoming an aviation mechanic requires a significant amount of training and education. By understanding the typical length of aviation mechanic school and what to expect during your training, you can make an informed decision about your career path. Whether you choose a full-time or part-time program, certificate or degree, or online or hybrid program, remember that becoming an aviation mechanic requires dedication, hard work, and a passion for aviation.

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