Air Force AFSC · Aviation

2A3X7 Tactical Aircraft Maintenance (5th Generation)

Overview

A 5th Generation Tactical Aircraft Maintenance specialist crews the F-22 and F-35. The specialist launches and recovers aircraft, performs inspections and servicing including hot pit refuels, troubleshoots structures, engines, and hydraulic systems, and supervises flightline maintenance functions.

Minimum clearance: Secret

Minimum ASVAB: M 47

See if you would hit this score: free ASVAB practice test

Skill levels: 2A317 helper · 2A337 apprentice · 2A357 journeyman · 2A377 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

  • Avionics Technicians
  • Aircraft Structure, Surfaces, Rigging, and Systems Assemblers
  • Aircraft Service Attendants

Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.

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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