Where to look for aircraft mechanic training in your area
Aircraft mechanic training is offered through community colleges, trade schools, and some four-year universities. The fastest way to find programs near you is to search your state's workforce development website or contact your local community college directly — most have aviation maintenance programs or can refer you to one that does. You can also search the Federal Aviation Administration's list of Part 147 schools, which are approved to teach the curriculum required for FAA certification.
Trade schools and private aviation academies often have more flexible schedules than community colleges, including evening and weekend classes, but they typically cost more. Community colleges tend to be less expensive and often allow you to earn an associate degree while completing your mechanic training. Some programs are offered at regional airports or through airline training centers, though these usually require you to already work for that airline or have a job offer.
Start by calling your local community college's admissions office and asking if they have an aviation maintenance program. If they do not, ask them to recommend schools in your region. You can also contact your state's Department of Labor or workforce development office — they maintain lists of approved training providers and can tell you which ones are closest to you.
Key Takeaways
- Community colleges and trade schools near you can be found through your state's workforce development website or by calling local colleges directly.
- The FAA maintains a searchable list of Part 147 approved schools that meet federal standards for aircraft mechanic training.
- Community colleges are usually less expensive than private trade schools but may have fewer class time options.
- Most programs take 18 to 24 months to complete and lead to FAA certification, which is required to work as an aircraft mechanic.
What to expect from an aircraft mechanic program
Aircraft mechanic training programs combine classroom instruction with hands-on work in a lab or shop. You will learn aircraft systems, maintenance procedures, safety regulations, and how to use specialized tools. Most programs teach you to work on both airframes (the body and structure of the plane) and powerplants (engines), though some schools let you choose one or the other.
The typical program runs 18 to 24 months full-time. Part-time options exist at some schools but take longer. You will spend time in a classroom learning theory, then move to a shop where you practice on real aircraft or trainers. By the end, you should be ready to take the FAA written exams and practical tests needed for your mechanic certificate.
Most programs require a high school diploma or GED. Some schools have math or reading prerequisites, so ask about entrance requirements when you call. A few programs offer remedial classes if you need to brush up on basics before starting.
Cost and financial support options
Community college programs typically cost between $8,000 and $15,000 total, though this varies by state and school. Private trade schools often cost $20,000 to $40,000 or more. These figures cover tuition only and do not include books, tools, or living expenses if you need to relocate.
Many students pay for training through federal student loans, which you can research through the FAFSA (Free process for Federal Student Aid). Some schools participate in state workforce development programs that may cover tuition for people who meet income requirements. Contact your state's Department of Labor to ask whether you may be may be able to access for training grants or subsidies.
Some employers, including airlines and maintenance shops, offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship programs. If you already work in aviation or a related field, ask your employer whether they support employee training. A few military bases offer aircraft mechanic training to service members and veterans.
How to compare programs in your area
When you have found two or three programs near you, ask each school for their job placement rate — this tells you what percentage of graduates find work as aircraft mechanics within six months of finishing. Ask how many instructors have real-world aircraft maintenance experience, because this affects the quality of teaching. Request a tour of the shop or lab so you can see the equipment and aircraft they use for training.
Check whether the school is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) or a regional accreditor. Accreditation does not may provide a job, but it means the school meets federal standards and your credits may transfer if you decide to continue your education later.
Ask whether the program covers both airframe and powerplant training, or only one. Some employers prefer mechanics who are certified in both, though you can earn one certificate first and add the other later. Find out whether the school helps you schedule your FAA exams or whether you arrange them yourself.
The path to FAA certification after training
After you finish your training program, you must pass three FAA exams to become a certified aircraft mechanic: a written test, an oral exam, and a practical test. The written test covers aircraft systems and maintenance procedures. The oral and practical tests are conducted by an FAA examiner or designated mechanic examiner (DME) and test your ability to diagnose problems and perform repairs correctly.
Most training programs prepare you for these exams as part of the curriculum. Your school will tell you where and when you can take the tests in your area. You must pass all three exams to receive your Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate, which is the standard credential for aircraft mechanics.
Once certified, you can work for airlines, maintenance shops, the military, or private aircraft owners. Your certificate does not expire, but you must follow FAA rules about continuing education and staying current with new aircraft systems and procedures.
Online and hybrid training options
Some schools offer hybrid programs that combine online classroom instruction with in-person lab work. This can reduce the time you spend traveling to campus, but you still need to attend hands-on sessions regularly because you cannot learn to repair aircraft through a computer. Online-only aircraft mechanic programs do not meet FAA requirements, so be cautious of any school claiming you can earn your certificate entirely online.
If you live far from a training program, a hybrid option may save you money on relocation costs. However, you will still need to be near the school for lab sessions, usually at least two or three days per week. Ask whether the school offers housing information or has partnerships with local landlords who rent to students.
Questions to ask when you contact a school
Before you decide on a program, prepare a list of questions. Ask about the total cost, including tuition, books, and tools. Ask how long the program takes and whether part-time options exist. Ask what the job placement rate is and whether the school helps graduates find work. Ask whether the program is accredited and whether credits transfer to other schools. Ask how many students are in each class and what the instructor-to-student ratio is. Ask whether the school has partnerships with airlines or maintenance shops that might lead to jobs after graduation.
Also ask about the equipment you will use — newer aircraft and modern diagnostic tools matter because you will work with similar equipment on the job. Ask whether the school covers both airframe and powerplant certification or only one. Finally, ask whether the school offers financial aid and what types of loans or grants may be available to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a high school diploma to enroll in aircraft mechanic training?
Yes, most programs require a high school diploma or GED. Some schools offer placement tests to check your math and reading skills, and a few offer remedial classes if you need to strengthen these areas before starting the main program.
How long does it take to become an aircraft mechanic?
Most full-time programs take 18 to 24 months. Part-time programs take longer, sometimes three to four years. After you finish training, you must pass three FAA exams, which typically takes a few weeks to a few months depending on how quickly you can schedule them.
Can I work while attending aircraft mechanic training?
This depends on the program's schedule. Full-time programs with daytime classes make it difficult to work full-time, though some students work part-time or weekends. Part-time and evening programs are designed for working students, but they take longer to complete.
What is the difference between a Part 147 school and other training programs?
Part 147 schools are approved by the FAA and follow a standardized curriculum that prepares you for FAA certification exams. Other programs may teach aircraft maintenance but may not meet FAA requirements for certification. Choosing a Part 147 school ensures your training counts toward your mechanic certificate.
Will my training transfer to another school if I move?
This depends on whether both schools are accredited and how much of the program you have completed. Accredited schools are more likely to accept transfer credits. Before you enroll, ask the school about transfer policies in case your situation changes.