What does an aircraft mechanic do?
- Inspect aircraft on a set schedule and after problems are reported.
- Repair and replace engines, landing gear, brakes and other parts.
- Test and fix avionics: navigation, radio and flight-control electronics.
- Keep detailed records for every job, as aviation rules require.
Where do aircraft mechanics work?
- Airline hangars and repair stations
- Airports and airfields
- Aircraft manufacturers and the military
Is a career as an aircraft mechanic right for you?
It could be a good fit if:
- You're precise and like following exact procedures.
- You enjoy both mechanical and electronic troubleshooting.
- You want skills that work anywhere in the country.
How to become an aircraft mechanic
Most people complete a certificate program at an FAA-approved school, and some earn an associate's degree. Others start with a high school diploma and learn on the job or in the military.
How much do aircraft mechanics make?
The median pay for aircraft mechanics in the U.S. was $80,180 a year in May 2025, and most earned between $48,780 to $128,890 a year. Median pay describes the whole trade, not a first-year wage: pay usually rises with experience, licenses and specialty.
Aircraft mechanic pay by state
| State | Median annual wage |
|---|---|
| United States | $79,870 |
| Massachusetts | $93,040 |
| New Hampshire | $79,610 |
Job outlook for aircraft mechanics
U.S. employment of aircraft mechanics is projected to change by +6% (faster than average) from 2025 to 2035, with about 13,100 openings each year on average. There were 159,800 aircraft mechanic jobs in the U.S. in 2025.
Things to know
- Median pay describes the whole trade, not a first-year wage. Pay rises with experience and skills.
- Aircraft mechanics are certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), a national credential rather than a state license, so it moves with you between states.
- Figures cover aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians together.
- Hangars and airfields can be loud, and shifts can include nights and weekends.
Aircraft mechanic FAQ
What does an aircraft mechanic do?
Aircraft mechanics and avionics technicians inspect, test, adjust and repair aircraft engines, airframes and electronic systems. Typical work includes: inspect aircraft on a set schedule and after problems are reported; repair and replace engines, landing gear, brakes and other parts; test and fix avionics: navigation, radio and flight-control electronics; keep detailed records for every job, as aviation rules require.
How do you become an aircraft mechanic?
Most people complete a certificate program at an FAA-approved school, and some earn an associate's degree. Others start with a high school diploma and learn on the job or in the military.
How much do aircraft mechanics make?
The median pay for aircraft mechanics in the U.S. was $80,180 a year (May 2025, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook: Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians). Most earn between $48,780 to $128,890 a year. Pay varies by state, experience and specialty.
Are aircraft mechanics in demand?
U.S. employment of aircraft mechanics is projected to change by +6% (faster than average) from 2025 to 2035, with about 13,100 job openings each year on average (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Which states pay aircraft mechanics the most?
By median annual wage in May 2025, the highest-paying states for aircraft mechanics were Massachusetts ($93,040), New Hampshire ($79,610), according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Sources
Figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Wayforge is a career-planning tool, not an official licensing source; always confirm requirements with your state licensing board.