Become an Aircraft Mechanic Without Spending $60k
Get started by downloading the free PDF guide on how to get your Airframe & Powerplant license.
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WHAT I DO:
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Reviews and suggestions on the best aviation products on the market. I do the research so you don’t have to!
ABOUT ME.
I’ve been a certificated A & P mechanic for 15+ years, with a specialized background in avionics and drone research and development – also have a private pilot license to boot.
I’ve got a bachelor’s degree in Aircraft Maintenance Technology from Western Michigan University.
I’ve worked on special programs like General Atomics’ Predator series drones, and Amazon’s Prime Air delivery drone project.
Let’s achieve your aircraft maintenance goals – I’m here to share my professional experience and answer your questions.
Start your aircraft maintenance journey with a free A&P guide!
Frequently Asked questions
Q: What is an A&P license and why do I need it?
An A&P (Airframe & Powerplant) license is the FAA certification that allows you to legally perform maintenance, repair, and inspection on aircraft.
If you want to work as an aircraft mechanic in the U.S., you need this license. Without it, you can’t sign off on work or be responsible for an aircraft’s airworthiness.
Q: How long does it take to become an A&P mechanic?
Most people take 18 months to 3 years, depending on whether you attend a formal school, get on-the-job training, or combine both.
If you go through an FAA-approved Part 147 school full-time, you can finish in as little as 18 months.
The key requirement is 1,900 hours of experience (or 1,200 if you attended an approved school).
Q: Do I need to go to college to get my A&P license?
No. You don’t need a college degree.
You need either 1,900 hours of hands-on aircraft maintenance experience, or 1,200 hours if you attended an FAA-approved maintenance technician school.
Many people skip college and go straight to work at a maintenance shop or airline to log their hours.
Q: What’s the typical salary for A&P mechanics?
Entry-level A&Ps start around $45,000–$55,000 per year depending on location and employer.
Experienced mechanics with 5+ years typically earn $65,000–$85,000.
Specialized roles (avionics, military, large aircraft) and supervisory positions can reach $90,000+.
The best-paying jobs are usually at major airlines, military contractors, or urban centers.
Q: Is becoming an A&P worth it? What’s the return on investment?
Yes, for most people.
If you spend $15,000–$30,000 on school and log your hours over 2–3 years while earning entry-level wages, you’ll recover that cost within the first 2–3 years of working as a certified A&P.
After that, the salary climb and job security make it worthwhile.
Plus, the skills transfer: A&Ps work everywhere from regional shops to major airlines to military bases to drone manufacturers.