Air Force AFSC · Aviation
2A3X3 Tactical Aircraft Maintenance
Overview
A Tactical Aircraft Maintenance specialist maintains every component of tactical aircraft, including fighters, strike fighters, and attack planes. The specialist keeps assigned aircraft ready to fly so pilots can complete missions safely and effectively.
Minimum clearance: Secret
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Skill levels: 2A313 helper · 2A333 apprentice · 2A353 journeyman · 2A373 craftsman
Core Skills
- preventive and corrective maintenance
- technical troubleshooting and fault isolation
- reading and interpreting technical data
- aircraft systems knowledge (avionics, hydraulics, engines)
- use of electronic test equipment
- maintenance documentation and digital records
- quality assurance and inspection
- safety and risk management
- team coordination on flightline
- logistics and parts management
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
- Access Software AIRPAX
Civilian Career Paths
- Aircraft Maintenance
- Mechanical Engineering
Training & Development
Getting Started
- ASTM NCATT Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET)
- ASTM NCATT Foreign Object Elimination (FOE)
- Associate Electronics Technician (CETa)
- Aviation Structures
- CNC Lathe Operations
Career Growth
- CNC Lathe Programming Setup & Operations
- CNC Mill Operations
- CNC Mill Programming Setup & Operations
- Certified Aerospace Technician -Vehicle Processing
- Certified Aerospace Technician Core
What the Work Involves
- Inspect completed work to certify that maintenance meets standards and that aircraft are ready for operation.
- Read and interpret maintenance manuals, service bulletins, and other specifications to determine the feasibility and method of repairing or replacing malfunctioning or damaged components.
- Maintain repair logs, documenting all preventive and corrective aircraft maintenance.
- Examine and inspect aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, and deicers to locate cracks, breaks, leaks, or other problems.
- Conduct routine and special inspections as required by regulations.
Related Occupations
- Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
- Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
- Supply Chain Managers
- Aircraft Service Attendants
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
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Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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