How to Be Flight Mechanic - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 14, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of a Flight Mechanic is essential to the success of any airline. By ensuring that all aircraft are in good working order and performing regular maintenance, these professionals help to reduce the risk of mechanical failure and other unplanned disruptions. In doing so, they help to guarantee the safety of passengers and crew, minimize delays, and optimize fuel efficiency. As a result, passengers experience timely, safe and cost-effective flights, while airlines benefit from greater revenue and improved customer satisfaction.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. If possible, take classes in physics, algebra and geometry.
Enter an aviation mechanic school and obtain an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate. Take courses in aircraft systems, powerplants and aircraft welding, as well as other related classes.
Obtain a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) license to work as an aircraft mechanic. To do this, you must pass a written exam, an oral exam and a practical test.
Find an entry-level position as an aircraft mechanic at a commercial airline or general aviation facility. This is the best way to gain experience in aircraft maintenance.
Obtain additional certifications, such as an Avionics Technician Certificate, if desired. This will make you more marketable as a flight mechanic.
Work your way up the ranks to become a flight mechanic. Flight mechanics are responsible for performing more complex maintenance tasks on aircraft.
Obtain certification from the FAA to become a certified flight instructor (CFI). This involves completing a course on aircraft systems and passing a written, oral and practical exam.
Maintain your certifications and licenses by taking continuing education courses and attending seminars.

In order to keep a flight mechanic up to date and efficient, they must stay informed on the latest advances in aircraft technology and the changing regulations in the aviation industry. Staying current on these topics requires a flight mechanic to have a firm understanding of their aircraft systems, as well as good communication skills to effectively collaborate with other professionals in the field. a flight mechanic must be willing to continue learning and expanding their knowledge base through attending seminars, conferences, and classes.

Finally, a flight mechanic must have an organized work environment and use of the best tools and techniques available to ensure their work is completed efficiently and accurately. This includes having access to reliable maintenance documentation and procedures, as well as the right tools and equipment for the job. By following these steps, a flight mechanic will be able to stay informed and efficient in the ever-changing world of aviation.

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Job Description

Plan and perform aircraft maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs in accordance with applicable regulations and procedures.
Inspect aircraft components, including engines, landing gear, fuel systems, brakes, electrical systems, instrumentation, and other components.
Perform routine and non-routine maintenance on aircraft systems, such as hydraulic systems and deicing systems.
Replace or repair components and systems using hand tools, power tools, and specialized equipment.
Monitor aircraft performance during pre-flight and post-flight inspections.
Document maintenance and repair activities in aircraft logs and other records.
Perform diagnostic tests to identify and troubleshoot malfunctions in aircraft systems.
Maintain a clean and orderly work area to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Monitor the performance of aircraft engines and other systems during flight.
Perform repairs on engines, landing gear, control surfaces, and other components as needed.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of aircraft systems and components
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues
Proficiency in aircraft maintenance procedures
Understanding of aircraft maintenance documentation
Proficiency in the use of aircraft maintenance tools and equipment
Ability to read, interpret, and follow blueprints and schematic diagrams
Knowledge of safety regulations and standards
Ability to work independently and in a team environment
Ability to lift and carry heavy objects
Knowledge of aircraft performance and handling characteristics

Being a Flight Mechanic requires a wide range of skills and knowledge to ensure aircraft are safe for flight. The most important skill to have is a thorough understanding of aviation technology and mechanics. This includes knowledge of aircraft systems, aircraft components, and their interaction with each other.

With this knowledge, a Flight Mechanic can effectively troubleshoot and identify problems with the aircraft. a Flight Mechanic needs to possess strong problem solving skills, as they are responsible for identifying and rectifying any mechanical or safety issues that arise. Furthermore, they must have good communication skills in order to effectively collaborate with other members of the aviation team.

Good organization and attention to detail is also essential to ensure all tasks are carried out to the highest standard. With these skills, a Flight Mechanic can help ensure the safety of passengers and crew members on every flight.

Flight Operations Manager, Flight Deck Technician, and Flight Control Specialist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working as a Flight Mechanic?
How familiar are you with FAA regulations and requirements?
Describe how you would troubleshoot technical issues with an aircraft engine.
Have you ever worked with a turbine engine?
What safety precautions do you take when working with aircraft components?
How would you prioritize multiple repair requests for different aircraft?
Are you comfortable working with computerized diagnostic equipment?
What methods do you use to keep up with technological advancements in the aviation industry?
How do you handle difficult customer service situations?
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision while working on an aircraft.

Common Tools in Industry

Multimeter. An electronic device for testing and measuring electrical currents, voltages, and resistances. (eg: for checking continuity of electrical circuit)
Torque Wrench. A tool used to apply a specific amount of torque to a fastener such as a nut or bolt. (eg: for tightening engine bolts)
Screwdriver. A tool used for turning screws. (eg: for removing screws from panels)
Impact Wrench. A tool used to apply high torque to fasteners such as nuts and bolts. (eg: for quickly removing wheel nuts)
Aviation Snips. A pair of scissors used to cut metal sheeting or other metal materials. (eg: for cutting aluminum sheeting)
Hand Drills. A tool used to create holes in hard materials such as metal or wood. (eg: for drilling holes in fuselage)
Air Hammer. A tool used to break, cut, or shape metal with a hammering action. (eg: for trimming rivets)
Socket Set. A set of tools used for tightening and loosening nuts and bolts. (eg: for changing engine components)
Hand Grinder. A tool used to smooth or shape metal surfaces. (eg: for grinding down burrs on a part)
Aviation Pliers. A type of pliers used to hold and manipulate small objects in tight spaces. (eg: for holding and manipulating small wire connectors)

Professional Organizations to Know

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
International Federation of Airworthiness (IFA)
International Council of Aircraft Maintenance Organizations (ICAMO)
National Air Transport Association (NATA)
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
Aircraft Maintenance Association (AMA)
Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA)
Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA)
Aerospace Maintenance Council (AMC)

We also have Flight Test Pilot, Flight Attendant, and Flight Director jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Avionics. The electronic systems used on aircraft, including communication, navigation, and surveillance systems.
Autopilot. An automated system used to control an aircraft's flight path.
Aircraft Systems. A collective term that refers to the various systems used on an aircraft.
Aircraft Maintenance. The process of inspecting, servicing, and repairing aircraft components in order to ensure their safe operation.
Flight Controls. The various controls used by the pilot to manipulate the aircraft's attitude, speed, and direction.
Flight Instruments. A set of instruments that measure the parameters of an aircraft's flight such as altitude, airspeed, attitude, and heading.
Airworthiness. A set of regulations that ensure that an aircraft is safe to fly.
Flight Planning. The process of planning a flight, including route selection, fuel requirements, and weather considerations.
Navigation. The process of determining an aircraft's position and direction in relation to its destination.
Weight and Balance. The process of calculating the weight distribution of an aircraft in order to ensure its safe operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Flight Mechanic?

Flight Mechanic is a professional certification from the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) that demonstrates a high level of expertise in aircraft maintenance and repair.

How long does it take to become a Flight Mechanic?

Becoming a Flight Mechanic typically requires 3-5 years of experience working in the field of aircraft maintenance and repair.

What are the requirements for becoming a Flight Mechanic?

To become a Flight Mechanic, you must have a minimum of 5 years of experience in aircraft maintenance and repair, complete at least 10 hours of approved continuing education courses, and pass a comprehensive written exam.

What kind of jobs can Flight Mechanics perform?

Flight Mechanics can work in a variety of roles in the aviation industry, such as aircraft inspector, avionics technician, line service technician, and aircraft maintenance supervisor.