AIRCRAFT MECHANIC

Aircraft Mechanics fit, service, repairand overhaul aircraft components, engines,accessories and related equipment.

Tasks

Fit, examine, test and service aircraftengines;Replace engine components orcomplete engines;Analyze test data to evaluate thecondition of engine, aircraft andequipment;Compile information frommeasurements and performance test;Compare the state of items such asfuel and oil levels and tire pressures,and the condition and cleanliness ofmechanical equipment to requiredstandards;Work close to tolerances, and useprecision measuring instruments andtesting equipment to ensureadjustments and repairs are madeaccording to manufacturer’sspecification standards;Manipulating hand and power toolsto repair or replace defective parts.

Basic Educational RequirementsThere is no prescribed course or field of

study for prospective Aircraft Mechanics;however, an aviation-related course wouldbe an advantage. Among the coursesoffered are Bachelor of Science in AircraftTechnology (4 years) and AircraftTechnician Course (2 years). AircraftMechanics are required to have a licensefrom the Air Transportation Office (ATO)before they can perform their duties. Thelicensing process includes writtenexaminations and panel interviews where alonger period of study in an aviation-relatedfield is an advantage. For AircraftMechanics, the rules stipulate a practicumor on-the-job experience in an authorized

aircraft maintenance or repair station.Because of the technical requirements ofthe job, new entrants to the workforce needto familiarize themselves with the equipmentand must have a theoretical and practicalknowledge of the job.

Skills and Competencies

Mathematical , analytical andcommunication skills;Mechanical aptitude with a thoroughknowledge of basic Math.

Physical Attributes and Characteristics

Must have an analytical mind sincethis occupation involves workactivities that include practical,hands-on problems and solutions.

Salary/CompensationIn the local labor market, a Junior

Mechanic receives approximately P20,199per month. For an Aircraft Mechanic Aposition, the base pay starts at P30,000.Additional benefits include premiums forovertime work on rest days, holidays, andspecial days; car acquisition; rice subsidy;training opportunities; and health caremaintenance. In the U.S, base pay is muchhigher at an average of P68,000 per month.In Singapore, the rate is around 3,000Singaporean dollars per month (P96,865)while in the United Arab Emirates, the payscale is about 3,713 dirhams per month(P52,767).

Prospects for Career AdvancementIt takes some five to six years before an

Aircraft Mechanic can acquire a MechanicA position which give them opportunities tobecome Aircraft Inspectors. Those withbroad experience in maintenence andoverhaul can, advance to lead inspector orshop supervisor positions.

Those who undergo additional businessand management training can open theirown aircraft maintenance facilities.

Employment OpportunitiesIn a forecast made in 2004, it was

projected that from 2004 - 2023, airpassenger traffic will grow by 5% perannum. This will require a delivery of 16,601new passenger aircrafts. By 2023, there willbe 21,759 passenger aircrafts in servicethroughout the world. This will mean thatairlines will be competing for skilled aircraftpersonnel including Aircraft Mechanics.

Overseas, the following have signifiedtheir intentions to hire Aircraft Mechanicsfrom other countries: Singapore, Hongkong,Qatar and Saudi Arabia, among others.Locally, job prospects will be high to fill-uppositions that have been vacated by thosewho voluntarily leave their jobs for overseasemployment and those who have retired.

Cost of Education *An Aircraft Technician Course costs

around P100,000 covering 2 years ofschooling. The 4 year course on AircraftMaintenance Technology would costapproximately P160,000.

* Based on tuition fee rates for school year 2007 - 2008