Aircraft technician

As an aircraft technician you keep aircraft safe and flyable. You maintain inspect and repair aircraft and helicopters — from mechanics and hydraulics to electronics and instruments — and your work is what allows the machines to take off with passengers or cargo again. You become a highly specialised technician in an industry where safety is everything.

§What do you do in everyday life?

You work in the hangar, in the workshop or out by the aircraft and perform scheduled inspections, troubleshooting and repairs. You take systems apart, replace parts, test that everything works and document every single intervention carefully — because in aviation, everything must be traceable and in order.

• 01You learn to inspect and maintain the aircraft's mechanical systems.
• 02You learn to troubleshoot in electrical, hydraulic, and instrumentation systems.
• 03You learn about aerodynamics, engines, and aircraft structure.
• 04You learn to work according to strict procedures and standards.
• 05You learn to test systems and document work precisely.
• 06You learn to work safely in an environment where mistakes are not an option.

§How do you get started?

You start with a basic course and continue on an education that alternates between school stays and practice in an aircraft maintenance company or with an airline. You get apprentice wages along the way, and the education requires good discipline because you work according to international air safety regulations.

§The way forward

As a fully trained aircraft technician you can work for airlines helicopter operators and aircraft maintenance companies — both civilian and military. With experience and certifications you can become even more specialised for example in avionics or specific aircraft types and take on more responsibility for approvals.

“Every time a plane takes off safely, it's because an aircraft technician has already checked it, something you never see.”