Airframe and Powerplant (A&P)

A&P Certification Course

If you are contemplating a career as an aircraft mechanic, you may be curious about the credentials you might seek to achieve your goals. Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificates are one set of qualifications that you can get.

What is an A&P License?

Airframe and Powerplant licenses determine your ability to inspect, maintain, and repair aircraft. Graduates who complete an A&P program are eligible to take the FAA’s written, oral, and practical exams for both ratings. Specifically, A&P training introduces you to the various aircraft components, including:

• Airframes
• Environmental, hydraulic, and warning systems
• Propellers
• Turbine and piston engines

Who Needs an A&P License

Members of the military are not obliged to get licensed as aircraft mechanics. However, you will get overseen by someone who is, which is why having one is advantageous. To be qualified for this certification, you must satisfy specific FAA-established requirements:

• It is illegal to participate if you are under 18.
• Reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English are required.

After these two prerequisites, there are a few other choices for eligibility. Completion of an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician training program comes next. You can complete the Joint Service Aviation Maintenance Technician Certification Council (JSAMTCC) training course if you are in the military.

The Importance of Having an A&P License

Due to the difficulty of the FAA’s certification examinations, A&P credentials are highly valued when beginning a job search. According to a study by Boeing, there is expected to be a severe shortage of A&P mechanics by 2038. Employers will recognize that you have the drive and experience to manage any situation if you possess an A&P certification. Aside from the aviation sector, mechanics with A&P certification are in high demand in these areas:

Government/ DoD Contractors

The government and its subcontractors are constantly looking for certified A&P mechanics to maintain, overhaul, and repair large aircraft fleets. When working with the government, you will encounter a wide variety of aircraft, from drone technology to manned supersonic planes.

Freight, Cargo, and Shipping

More people are shopping online while the pandemic continues around the globe. Everything seems to be available for doorstep delivery these days, including food, apparel, and electronics. Aircraft are a significant component in getting your merchandise to you. And someone with A&P certification must maintain these aircraft.

Historic and Vintage Aircraft

You will likely encounter a stunning collection of vintage and historic planes at an airshow. Certified A&P mechanics who have a passion for history, as well as their vocation, may be able to bring these historical planes back to the skies.

Conclusion

The aviation sector relies heavily on aircraft maintenance specialists to ensure the safety of its planes. These specialists’ job is to keep planes running smoothly, perform routine preventative maintenance, and identify problems before they become major ones. Pilots and crew members are just as important to the safety of passengers as airline employees. As a result, obtaining an A&P License is critical.