How Much Does an Aircraft Mechanic Make?
As an aircraft mechanic, you play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and airworthiness of aircraft. Your skills and expertise are essential in diagnosing and repairing complex issues, maintaining aircraft systems, and performing routine maintenance tasks. But how much can you expect to earn in this profession?
Entry-Level Aircraft Mechanic Salaries
For entry-level aircraft mechanics, salaries vary depending on factors such as location, employer, and level of experience. On average, an entry-level aircraft mechanic can expect to earn:
- $35,000 – $50,000 per year in the United States, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) [1]
- $28,000 – $42,000 per year in Canada, according to the Transport Canada [2]
- £25,000 – £35,000 per year in the United Kingdom, according to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) [3]
Experienced Aircraft Mechanic Salaries
As you gain experience and build a reputation as a skilled aircraft mechanic, your salary can increase significantly. Here are some average salary ranges for experienced aircraft mechanics:
- $60,000 – $80,000 per year in the United States, according to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) [4]
- $50,000 – $70,000 per year in Canada, according to the Air Canada [5]
- £40,000 – £60,000 per year in the United Kingdom, according to the CAA [6]
Senior Aircraft Mechanic Salaries
For senior aircraft mechanics with many years of experience, salaries can reach:
- $80,000 – $100,000 per year in the United States, according to the FAA [1]
- $70,000 – $90,000 per year in Canada, according to the Transport Canada [2]
- £60,000 – £80,000 per year in the United Kingdom, according to the CAA [6]
Aircraft Mechanic Salary Ranges by Employer
Salaries for aircraft mechanics can vary significantly depending on the employer. Here are some average salary ranges by employer:
| Employer | Average Salary (USD) |
|---|---|
| United States Air Force | $40,000 – $70,000 |
| United States Navy | $50,000 – $80,000 |
| Air Canada | $40,000 – $60,000 |
| Air Transport International | $30,000 – $50,000 |
| Private aviation companies | $25,000 – $45,000 |
Bonuses and Benefits
Many employers offer bonuses and benefits to aircraft mechanics, which can increase their overall compensation. Here are some common bonuses and benefits:
- Bonuses: Performance-based bonuses, overtime pay, and bonuses for meeting productivity targets
- Benefits: Health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and education reimbursement
- Certification bonuses: Bonuses for obtaining advanced certifications, such as A&P certification
- Shift differentials: Additional pay for working irregular shifts, such as night shifts or weekends
Conclusion
As an aircraft mechanic, your salary can vary depending on your level of experience, location, and employer. On average, entry-level aircraft mechanics can expect to earn between $35,000 and $50,000 per year, while experienced mechanics can earn between $60,000 and $100,000 per year. Remember to consider bonuses and benefits when calculating your total compensation package.
References
[1] Federal Aviation Administration. (2022). Aircraft Mechanic Salary. [2] Transport Canada. (2022). Aircraft Maintenance Technician Salary.Note: The salary ranges mentioned above are approximate and based on national averages. Salaries can vary depending on the specific location, employer, and other factors.
