Aircraft mechanics (A&P technicians) inspect, maintain, and repair airplanes and helicopters — engines, hydraulics, avionics, and airframes. It's precise, FAA-regulated, well-paid work keeping aircraft safe and flight-ready, and the A&P certificate opens doors at airlines, repair stations, and manufacturers nationwide.
FAA-approved program (about 2 years) or military aviation maintenance. Learn airframe and powerplant systems.
After passing FAA exams. Line or hangar maintenance. Pay climbs with experience and type ratings.
Add Inspection Authorization (IA) to approve major repairs. $90K–$120K+.
Avionics, engines, or crew lead — or move into MRO management.
Your skills and interests may fit more than one trade. Compare before you commit.
Our Salary Compare tool shows Aircraft Mechanic wages at every level — and stacks them against other trades and a 4-year degree.
Compare Aircraft Mechanic Salaries →Registered apprenticeships pay you from day one. There is no national list of open seats — programs recruit on their own schedules. The way in is to find the programs near you and ask when they take applications.
Find programs near you → Browse Trade SchoolsThe DOL Partner Finder lists registered apprenticeship sponsors — employers and organizations that run programs. Search Aircraft Mechanic and your state, then call the ones near you and ask when they accept applications. Some open once a year.y or ZIP to see what's open near you.