Overview
Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors install, adjust, repair and overhaul aircraft instrument, electrical or avionics systems on aircraft. This unit group also includes avionics inspectors who inspect instrument, electrical and avionics systems following assembly, modification, repair or overhaul. They are employed by aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul establishments and by airlines and other aircraft operators. Apprentices are also included in this unit group.
This group performs some or all of the following duties:
Aircraft instrument mechanics and technicians
Repair and overhaul, install, calibrate and test aircraft instruments.
Aircraft electrical mechanics and technicians
Repair and overhaul, modify, install and test aircraft electrical systems and equipment.
Avionics mechanics and technicians
Troubleshoot, repair and overhaul, test, modify, install and inspect aircraft electronic systems and components including communications, navigation, and autoflight equipment.
Avionics inspectors
Inspect and test aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics systems and ensure that the installation, maintenance, repair and overhaul of these systems meet Transport Canada and company standards of performance and safety.
Aircraft mechanics and technicians who work in repair and overhaul shops service and test electrical, electronic and instrument components.
Avionics mechanics and technicians who work in maintenance hangars troubleshoot, repair, install and inspect aircraft systems and components.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$44,298
$78,502
$111,726
Job openings
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British Columbia
141expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Aircraft instrument and avionics mechanics and technicians require completion of a two- to three-year college program in avionics or electronics.
Aircraft electrical mechanics and technicians require completion of a college program as an electrical or electronic technician.
Four years of on-the-job or company apprenticeship training is required for all mechanics and technicians in this unit group.
Additional information
Avionics inspectors, maintenance technicians and mechanics may acquire further endorsements to their AME licence allowing them to inspect and certify a broader range of aircraft and avionics systems.
An AME licence can be obtained by fulfilling the education and training requirements as stated above and passing Transport Canada AME examinations.
Progression to supervisory positions within specific areas of expertise is possible with experience.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors in B.C.
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) License through Transport Canada - Aircraft Instrument Mechanic
Optional: The following certification are optional to practice as Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors in B.C.
- Certification through the Canadian Council for Aviation & Aerospace (CCAA)
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) License through Transport Canada - Aircraft Instrument Mechanic
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To practice as an aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technician or inspectors in Canada, you may need to receive an aircraft maintenance (AME) license from Transport Canada. Eligibility is achieved by completing an Transport Canada-approved AME basic training program, attaining the required amount of civil aviation maintenance work experience, and successfully writing the necessary technical and regulatory exams.
Certification through the Canadian Council for Aviation & Aerospace (CCAA)
To work as an aircraft instrument, electrical, and avionics mechanic, technician, or inspector in B.C., you may choose to become certified through the Canadian Council for Aviation & Aerospace (CCAA). Eligibility is achieved through documenting competencies and submitting these to the CCAA.
Full licensing as an Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors requires work experience.
Work Experience
Work experience required
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
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