How Much Does An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Make?

Aircraft maintenance engineers are responsible for the repair and maintenance of aircraft. These highly paid professionals require both technical and theoretical knowledge. Understanding the skills and responsibilities of this role can help you decide if it is the right career for you. In this article, we discuss the average salary of an aircraft maintenance engineer, the skills required to become one and the career scope of these engineers.

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How Much Does An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Make?

If you are considering a career in aviation, you may wonder, "How much does an aircraft maintenance engineer make?" The average salary of an aircraft maintenance engineer is ₹59,289 per month. This figure can go up, depending on the candidate's experience and skill set. For instance, the average salary of a senior aircraft engineer is ₹95,314 per month, while the average starting salary for a fresher is ₹14,915 per month.

Several factors affect the salary of an aircraft maintenance engineer. Some of these factors are employer, years of experience, location, skill set and flying hours. The higher your flying hours are, the more you can make. Experience also plays a major role in determining the candidate's salary. Airlines look for experienced engineers who can bring in their expertise to the role. One can research different airlines and their pay packages before applying for a job.

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What Does An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Do?

Aircraft maintenance engineers undertake the prime responsibility of repairing, inspecting and upgrading aircraft. They are highly trained and qualified professionals who possess both theoretical knowledge as well as practical expertise. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) conducts licensing examinations for aircraft maintenance engineers about four times every year.

Prior to the take-off of an aircraft, the aircraft maintenance engineer inspects the vehicle thoroughly to make sure all the security measures are in place. In addition to these, they keep themselves informed with up-to-date techniques in the aviation sector. It is also their responsibility to upgrade the aircraft as and when required. This job provides a high level of dignity as aircraft maintenance engineers ensure a safe flight. A trainee gets a stipend while pursuing an AME course.

Eligibility Criteria For The AME Course

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA approves the Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) course). The curriculum offers a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical training. Here are the eligibility criteria to get admission into the course:

• Candidates age must be between 16 to 28 years.

• Candidates must study secure a minimum of 45% marks in their 10+2.

• Candidates eligible for admission in BTech courses are also eligible to pursue an AME course.

• Candidates must not have any physical disabilities, including colour blindness.

• Candidates who have undergone a three-year engineering diploma in any stream from a recognised university are eligible.

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Responsibilities Of An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

Here are some of the responsibilities an aircraft maintenance engineer undertakes on a daily basis:

• Replacing oxygen system components and testing them regularly

• Installing electrical circuits

• Repairing and inspecting aircraft engines

• Assembling aircraft frames

• Inspecting engines and mechanical systems before the flight

• Maintaining a record of all the inspections and maintenance work

• Ordering tools and aircraft parts when required

• Maintaining the quality of the company's equipment

• Ensuring the implementation of all safety and security measures mandated by aviation authorities

Job Opportunities In Aircraft Maintenance Engineering

Here is a list of sectors that provide opportunities for aircraft maintenance engineers:

• Airports: Aircraft maintenance engineers are in demand at both domestic and international airports to carry out ground-level checks for safety and security.

• DCGA: The Directorate General of Civil Aviation makes the rules and regulations for civil aviation. They also provide job opportunities to aircraft maintenance engineers in their team.

• Aircraft manufacturing companies: Aircraft manufacturers require the expertise of Aircraft maintenance engineers for quality control.

• MRO organisations: Many of the major maintenance, repair and operations (MRO) organisations also hire aircraft maintenance engineers as a part of their workforce.

• Aircraft parts manufacturing companies: The companies that make different parts for an aircraft require the technical expertise of these engineers.

• National and international airlines: It is a compulsion for both national and international airlines to hire aircraft maintenance engineers for safety measures.

• Army: The Indian Army uses aircraft to protect the country. Aircraft maintenance engineers are responsible for the maintenance of those aircraft.

Day In The Life Of An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

Here is an overview of what a standard day looks like for an aircraft maintenance engineer:

• Look into the maintenance of the airline's equipment

• Conduct inspections before the flight takes off

• Stay up-to-date on new aircraft technologies

• Conduct inspections of flights as and when they arrive

• Follow regulations and protocols provided by the aviation authority

• Repair any damages in the aircraft

• Conduct tests to ensure the aircraft is safe to fly

• Replace damaged parts on the aircraft

• Sign the maintenance certificate after all security checks

Skills Required To Become An Aircraft Maintenance engineer

Here are some of the skills required to become a successful aircraft maintenance engineer:

• Technical knowledge: This job role requires the engineer to work with small delicate parts and big machinery. Therefore, it is crucial for an aircraft maintenance engineer to have technical expertise in the field.

• Physical strength: Aircraft maintenance engineers regularly move around heavy machinery and structures. Being physically strong helps make their work easier while repairing machinery.

• Meticulousness: As an aircraft maintenance engineer, one ensures the safety of the passengers. Therefore, it is important for them to pay close attention to the smallest details and resolve issues.

• Ability to read manuals: Aircraft maintenance engineers interpret manuals that instruct them about maintenance rules and provide technical information.

• Communication skills: As a part of a big team, aircraft maintenance engineers communicate their plans clearly to the team of pilots, technicians and mechanics. It is important for them to do this fluently.

• Decision making: Aircraft maintenance engineers often make quick decisions regarding repairs of aircraft. Any negligence on their part can compromise the safety of an aircraft.

How To Become An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer

Here are the steps you can take to become an aircraft maintenance engineer:

1. Pursue an aircraft maintenance engineering course

After completing your 10+2 or equivalent, you can pursue the DGCA-approved aircraft maintenance engineering course. This licensed course is recognised internationally by the International Civil Aviation Organisation. Here is the list of aircraft maintenance engineering entrance exams:

• Indian Aerospace and Engineering Entrance Examination (IAEEE)

• All India AME Entrance Examination (AIAEE)

• All India Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Examination (AIAMEE)

• Joint Entrance Examination (AME) or JEE-AME

• Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Common Entrance Test (AME CET)

• Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Common Aptitude Exam (AMECAT)

2. Earn your licence

The licence you earn after completing an aircraft maintenance engineering course defines your career path. There are two primary types of licences:

Type A

This type of licence is for professionals who can only work as technicians for maintaining aeroplane or helicopter engines. Here are its subcategories:

• A1: This allows you to maintain only aeroplanes with jet engines.

• A2: This allows you to maintain aeroplanes with piston engines.

• A3: This allows you to maintain helicopters with jet engines.

• A4: This allows you to maintain helicopters with piston engines.

Type B

This licence allows you to maintain and repair engines and wings of helicopters and aeroplanes. Here are its subcategories:

• B1: This allows you to maintain only jet engine aeroplanes.

• B1.1: This allows you to maintain only piston engine aeroplanes.

• B1.3: This allows you to maintain only jet engine helicopters.

• B1.4: This allows you to maintain only piston engine helicopters.

• B2: This relates to the maintenance of electronic and instrumental devices like radio, navigation and communication.

3. Study aviation rules

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has formed codes for aircraft maintenance engineers. Having a deep understanding of these guidelines can help you become successful in your career. They help you with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

4. Network

Networking with fellow professionals in the aviation sector can help you find jobs as an aircraft maintenance engineer. Online social media platforms or offline gatherings are a good way of doing so. They also help you get an overview of job openings and helpful tips.

Salary figures show data listed on Indeed Salaries at the time of writing the article. Salaries may vary depending on the hiring organisation and a candidate's experience, academic background and location.
Please note that none of the companies mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.

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