Overview
Aircraft mechanics maintain, repair, overhaul, modify and test aircraft structural, mechanical and hydraulic systems. Aircraft inspectors inspect aircraft and aircraft systems following manufacture, modification, maintenance, repair or overhaul. Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors 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 mechanics
Troubleshoot aircraft structural, mechanical or hydraulic systems to identify problems and adjust and repair systems according to specifications, technical drawings, manuals and established procedures
Repair and overhaul aircraft structural, mechanical or hydraulic systems
Install or modify aircraft engines and mechanical, hydraulic, flight control, fuel and pneumatic systems
Dismantle airframes, aircraft engines or other aircraft systems for repair, overhaul and cleaning, and reassemble
Perform and document routine maintenance
Order and maintain inventory of parts and supplies.
Aircraft mechanics usually specialize in working on specific aircraft systems such as engines, engine accessories, airframes, propellers, mechanical components or hydraulic systems and specific kinds of aircraft, such as light aircraft, jet transports and helicopters.
Aircraft inspectors
Inspect structural and mechanical systems of aircraft and ensure that these systems meet Transport Canada and company standards of performance and safety
Inspect work of aircraft mechanics performing maintenance, repair and overhaul, or modification of aircraft and aircraft mechanical systems to ensure adherence to standards and procedures
Maintain detailed repair, inspection and certification records of aircraft.
Employment prospects
Annual salary
$50,054
$72,996
$93,852
Job openings
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British Columbia
885expected job openings (5-year forecast)
Education and training
Employment requirements
Completion of secondary school is required.
A college diploma in aircraft maintenance or Completion of a four-year apprenticeship program is usually required.
Several years of on-the-job training are required for aircraft mechanics.
Additional information
Aircraft mechanics may progress to foreman/woman, shop supervisor or aircraft inspector.
With experience, aircraft inspectors may progress to shop inspector or supervisor.
Aircraft mechanics and inspectors may acquire further endorsements to their AME licence allowing them to inspect and certify a broader range of aircraft and aircraft systems.
Certification requirements
Mandatory: You need the following certification to practice as Aircraft mechanics and aircraft inspectors in B.C.
- Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) License through Transport Canada - Aircraft Mechanics
Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) License through Transport Canada - Aircraft Mechanics
Confirm with the certifying body that your intended program qualifies you for this certification.
To practice as an aircraft maintenance engineer in Canada, you must 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 experience, and successfully writing the necessary technical and regulatory exams.
Post-secondary programs in B.C.
Explore programs related to this career offered at post-secondary institutions in B.C.