Which Track Should I Take to Become an Aircraft Maintenance Technician?

As India's aviation industry continues to grow, the demand for skilled aircraft maintenance technicians (AME) is on the rise. This guide will walk you through the process of becoming an AME, including eligibility, entrance exams, courses, training, and certification requirements.

Eligibility for Aircraft Maintenance Engineering

To embark on a career as an AME, you need to meet certain educational prerequisites. Specifically, you should have completed your 10th and 12th with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM), or possess an engineering diploma. These foundational sciences are crucial for understanding the complex systems within aircraft.

AME CET: Admission and Scholarships

The AME CET (Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Common Entrance Test) is a prestigious examination that many aspiring AMEs must pass. This test not only grants you entry into top AME institutes but also provides an opportunity to secure scholarships. In fact, up to 100 scholarships are available to all qualified candidates, making it a promising avenue for financial assistance.

AME Course: A Bridge to Certification

Once you have cleared the entrance exam, the next step is to enroll in an approved AME course. Most of these courses are 2-4 years long and are specifically designed to teach you about aircraft maintenance and related regulations. For those aiming for a more intensive education, a degree program in AME is now available at some universities, offering even greater depth of knowledge.

Training and Certification: The Path to Licensing

After completing your theoretical and practical training, the final step is obtaining the AME license from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This involves successfully passing a series of examinations and undergoing rigorous training.

The course typically spans 3 years, with the last 6 months dedicated to on-the-job training (OJT) or apprenticeship. While many colleges provide these opportunities, candidates often need to arrange them independently. Paid apprenticeships are becoming more common, providing additional income and valuable hands-on experience.

Furthermore, you must pass a total of 14 modules of objective tests and some additional subjective exams simultaneously. These examinations are administered by the DGCA and are essential for proving your aptitude and knowledge in aircraft maintenance.

The Certification Process: DGCA Examinations

Once you have successfully completed all the DGCA modules, you are eligible to become an AME who has the authority to sign off on aircraft, allowing them to fly. However, this is just the beginning of your journey. Depending on the nature of your work, you may be eligible for specific aircraft type courses sponsored by organizations.

Sponsoring organizations will require you to fill a bond, commit to not leaving the company for a certain number of years. This type of training involves hands-on experience on specific aircraft, such as ATR, Airbus 320, Boeing 737, Bell 407, and Embraer 145. After obtaining approximately 1 year of experience on the specified aircraft, you will have to pass a skill test and an oral exam at the DGCA office. These exams are particularly challenging but, upon passing, you will earn your AME license for the specific aircraft.

In summary, becoming an aircraft maintenance technician in India involves a rigorous and rewarding path. From meeting eligibility requirements to passing the AME CET, enrolling in an approved course, and finally obtaining the DGCA license, every step is crucial in building a successful career in the aviation field.

Keywords: Aircraft maintenance technician, AME CET, DGCA certification