How to become an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

An aircraft maintenance engineer is a licensed professional who is responsible for the safety and smooth functioning of an aircraft. A maintenance engineer identifies and investigates issues related to the functioning of the aircraft, makes necessary repairs, for the same as well as installs the relevant upgrades to aircraft. This involves deconstructing and reassembling the relevant parts, installing new parts, and conducting tests to examine the functioning and efficiency of the aircraft.

It is only upon the written approval of the Aircraft maintenance engineer, in the form of a Flight Releasing Certificate, signifying a quality assurance check of the aircraft that it is authorized to take off. The entire aircraft servicing and maintenance activities are under the purview of an aircraft maintenance engineer. As a part of their job, they are to handle sensitive equipment, as well as potentially dangerous chemicals, which necessitate thorough knowledge of the health and safety precautions applicable.

Aircraft Maintenance Engineers` primary responsibilities include making repairs, troubleshooting problems, conducting inspections, and upgrading aircrafts. Prior to the aircraft`s takeoff, the Aircraft Maintenance Engineers inspect the aircraft and sign the Certificate of Safety. Along with these, Aircraft Maintenance Engineers are expected to keep up to date with the latest trends and techniques available in the Aviation sector, as well as carry out regular aircraft upgrades in addition to maintenance and troubleshooting responsibilities.

The role of an aircraft maintenance engineer typically comprises of the following tasks:

• Conduct tests to ensure the functioning of the engines, mechanical systems and electronic systems of the aircraft are as per the safety regulations and standards
• Examine the aircraft’s communication and oxygen system components
• Dismantle and reassemble the parts of the aircraft for testing and examining
• Make necessary repairs and replacements, install upgrades
• Generate documentation of the maintenance procedures, including all issues, repairs, and upgrades to the aircraft
• Carry out routine inspections of the engines and mechanical systems of the aircraft prior to takeoff
• Effectively use computer-aided software to conduct nondestructive testing
• Ensure that the supplies and equipment needed for the aircraft are available
• Ensure adherence to the safety and security regulations in the process of maintenance activities
• Oversee and approve the work of other air mechanics and engineers

Aircraft maintenance engineers must be enthusiastic about performing various maintenance and repair tasks. The ideal candidate for this position is detail-oriented and strives for accuracy. Education and training vary by company, but those with prior job experience are usually preferred. Employers typically prefer candidates who have the following skills:

Attention to Detail – Most aircraft maintenance engineers work in unpredictable environments, both in terms of mechanical issues and environmental factors such as weather. As a result, they must be a strong performer under pressure and be able to multitask while paying close attention to details and the surrounding environment.

Flexibility – depending on the issues that arise, aircraft maintenance engineers frequently work long hours. In order to cover flying hours, most engineers work shifts that include weekends.

Communication Skills – Because aircraft maintenance engineers interact with many people – supervisors, maintenance staff, and other aircraft engineers – in a fast-paced environment, it's critical to be a strong, detailed communicator.

Problem-Solving Ability – Aircraft maintenance engineers are natural problem solvers, capable of handling situations where some investigative work is required to rule out certain scenarios and determine the root cause of an issue. Other skills besides these include being observant, having an eye for detail, having a problem-solving attitude, and cooperating skills. To perform well and earn a good Aircraft Mechanic Job Salary, aircraft maintenance engineers should have a keen sense of aviation trends and keep themselves up to date on a regular basis.

Aspirants are expected to clear the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering common entrance test (AME CET) which makes the aspirant eligible to apply at top Aircraft Maintenance Engineering institutes in India approved by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) based on the All India Ranking (AIR). It is a challenging exam to crack that requires hard work as well as rigorous and consistent preparation. Some institutes also accept JEE Main test scores. Many educational institutes conduct their own entrance tests.  

Depending on one’s educational background, experience, and skill sets, aspirants may apply for the following aircraft maintenance engineering jobs: 

• Aircraft maintenance technician 
• Aircraft maintenance engineer
• Maintenance engineer
• General aircraft mechanic
• Senior aircraft maintenance engineer