There are many pros and cons of being an aircraft mechanic. Now, in our opinion, the pros outweigh the cons but we realize we may be a bit biased given we train aviation maintenance technicians.
So, to help you decide if this is the right career for you, let’s explore some of the pros and cons of being an aviation maintenance technician.
Advantages of Being an Aircraft Mechanic
Working as an aircraft mechanic offers many benefits. You can experience strong career growth and high demand, receive competitive salaries and benefits, enjoy a variety of career options as you progress through your career.
Career Growth and Demand
The first big pro of being an aircraft mechanic is that the demand for aircraft mechanics is strong due to the consistent need for air travel.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for this profession is promising with 11% growth expected over the next ten years.
Boeing on the other hand estimates even more growth with a projected 610,000 aviation maintenance technicians needed globally in order to keep up with demand.
And given that there’s already a shortage of A&P certified maintenance techs, that shortage will likely only get worse.
Air travel remains a critical mode of transportation, requiring skilled professionals to maintain and repair aircraft. This steady demand ensures job security and provides you with long-term career prospects in the aviation industry.
Salary and Benefits
Aircraft mechanics earn competitive salaries. The BLS notes that entry-level positions can start around $37,890 per year, while more experienced mechanics can earn significantly more. Benefits often include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
In general, those working in general aviation will earn lower salaries and receive fewer benefits than those working for airlines or large cargo carriers.
Aircraft mechanic salaries at airlines are significantly higher with many earning over 6 figures after just a few years of work experience.
Apart from monetary gains, the profession offers a great deal of job satisfaction. Many mechanics find personal fulfillment in knowing their work is crucial for passenger safety. This satisfaction, combined with financial benefits, makes it a rewarding career choice.
As an aviation maintenance technician for an airline you’ll receive great pay, good PTO and retirement benefits, and the ability to switch to other bases with enough seniority.
Diverse Opportunities
There are a variety of opportunities in different sectors like the airlines, private aviation, and cargo carriers. Working in aviation maintenance offers the chance to perform various tasks including routine maintenance, repair work, inspections, and even retrofitting.
As you enter the field, you’ll have the opportunity to figure out what interests you most and pursue it.
Whether you’re working on cutting-edge technology for private jets or ensuring military aircraft are ready for missions, there’s a wide range of paths you can take in this field.
Additionally, the skills you gain are transferable, making it easier to switch between different sectors of the aviation industry.
Cons of Being an Aircraft Mechanic
Now, like any job, there are some challenges working as an aircraft mechanic.
Industry Cycles
The aviation industry is quite cyclical.
Just looking at the last ten years we saw a period of growth and good career opportunities for aircraft mechanics but then, in 2020 many were laid off due to the massive slowdown in the industry due to Covid.
Now, just a couple of years later, the airlines are once again desperately hiring maintenance professionals to keep up with demand for air travel.
As an aircraft mechanic, you need to prepare yourself for the ups and downs and accept that you may be laid off at some point or need to move to another city in order to keep working.
Physical and Environmental Factors
Aircraft mechanics work in a fast-paced environment that’s deadline driven as companies want to keep their aircraft flying rather than in the maintenance shop.
It’s also a physically demanding job. So it’s best to keep yourself in good physical shape since you’ll be lifting heavy parts and tools and spending a good amount of time on your feet.
Working in cramped or awkward positions is common, and you may find yourself kneeling, bending, or stretching to do your tasks. These physical strains can lead to potential injuries if you’re not careful.
Another challenge is dealing with chemicals, oils, and fuels, which can be hazardous to your health.
Airplane mechanics need to follow strict safety standards and use proper protective equipment to prevent accidents.
Working both indoors and outdoors means you’ll also face different weather conditions, adding another layer of difficulty.
Work Schedule and Pressure
Aircraft mechanics often work long hours. This means you might work nights, weekends, and holidays to ensure that aircraft are ready for operation. The aviation industry never stops, so your role requires flexibility.
High-pressure environments are a norm.
Mechanics must perform their tasks accurately and quickly to meet tight deadlines. Any mistakes can have serious consequences for flight safety, adding immense pressure to perform well consistently.
Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies and regulations are also crucial, requiring you to balance ongoing education with job responsibilities.The combination of physical demands and work pressure makes this a challenging but rewarding career path.