Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
Advanced C-130 maintenance and responsibility for inspecting aircraft, engines, components, and equipment transfer directly to civilian aircraft maintenance and inspection work.
How to prepare: Gather military maintenance records and request FAA review of your documented experience toward Airframe and Powerplant certification. The experience route requires 18 months for one rating or 30 months concurrently for both, plus knowledge, oral, and practical tests; approved school or military certification-course completion offers an alternative to the experience route, and applicants must be at least 18 and able to read, write, speak, and understand English.
What the civilian 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.
- Examine and inspect aircraft components, including landing gear, hydraulic systems, and deicers to locate cracks, breaks, leaks, or other problems.