I have been a A&P since 1990 it has been a tough but rewarding Career. The pay these days is Excellent , 6 figures is completely with in your grasp as a A&P. Like anything in life you get out of it what you put into it!!!!!!! Many opportunities to be had in aviation. Any skill trade these days is a vary good way to go. Guess I will have to edit this post. Yes the pay is not so good in ga. A&P needs to get with a 121 Operator or go be a contractor you can make tons of money. Top out for most Major airlines is like 7 to 8 years average, not 20 years . If you are a job jumper that is on you.
*six figures is in your grasp, but not in GA! Not trying to complain as I feel I’m compensated well for what I do in GA but you won’t get six figures at the vast majority of GA places. Maybe, as a Director of maintenance at a large repair station you could pull that much. But not as a mechanic in GA
@@TheReadBaron91 just went through the interview with one of the biggest regional airlines owned by major less than a month ago. They offered 23.14/hr. I’m an A&P IA with more than 6 years total experience on turbine helos, turboprops and recips ga planes. Idk how should I survive with this kind of pay rate having a family. As well as idk what six figures everyone keeps talking about. You would probably do more working on cars nowadays.
@@TheReadBaron91 jobs are offered all over, 6 digits easy!!! 32-40+/hr normal pay not including OT..if anyone offered me 23/hr as an A&P, I'd take that as an insult...
@@n1ksf I haven’t seen them at any GA shop paying that much. Haven’t been job hunting either though. I’d expect most GA shops are paying $20-30 based on experience for shop floor personnel, of course management and leads may see just above that. I’m above $25 with IA but less than $30. 5 years experience not including my military time .
I have been doing owner assisted annuals on our club planes for years. Didn’t know I could log time. Good to know if I want to get my license. Was talking with my A&p and suggested that I try and get it. I said I wasn’t sure of job market around where I live. He said there are a bunch of non aviation companies that hire a&p’s too. He mentioned an elevator company as one of them. They know you have the training in sheet metal, electrical, hydraulics, general mechanical, etc.. if you are interested in getting your a&p there are more options than you may think.
After local discussions with the EAA here in Reno, I have decided to "go on the warpath" to do all I can to get more people interested in an A&P career. This is a foreign domain for me, and I just now got my first copy of the FAR/AMT book and am trying to understand the business. My intent is to try to start a national movement, using the EAA as a base, to get the FARs changed or at least some Advisory Circulars issued that will allow apprentice A&Ps to earn a decent living while they are building the time needed to take the airframe and powerplant tests. Plus, any other initiatives that could help mitigate these shortages of people. I don't know exactly what to do yet or how to do it, but I am determined.
Noble goal, but it will take an act of congress to get the FAA to agree to something like that. Getting the FAA to change a FAR is like trying to run through rain and not get wet. It’s impossible short of someone dying. And apprentices not getting paid probably won’t kill anyone. Not only that, but apprentices can get paid in shops while they work as repairmen.
Since everything else is subsidized, it may be easier for the EAA to get apprentice hours subsidized. By making it more affordable for smaller shops to take on an apprentice, I think smaller shops would do the legwork of recruiting future mechanics.
Been in the army for almost 6 years as a uh 60 mechanic. Going to extend an additional 2 years so I can get my a&p before I get out. Can’t wait to get started on my civilian career path. I used the Army experience and glad I learned quite a lot from my superiors about aviation maintenance etc.
@@Esb906 I’m looking into that to see if I can still do that while active duty. I might have to attend a 2 year program. The only a&p schoolhouses I’ve heard about are the crash course and 2 year program.
@@Esb906 that’s awesome. So even though you ets you are still authorized bah under the gi bill? I guess the only thing needed would be a job as well lol
I’ll also add this. Depending on the community college, your FAFSA, and other factors, you may not have to pay for your classes at all. That was the case for me in California. I did not have to pay for tuition. All I paid for was semester fees ($30-$50 a semester, including parking permits for the semester), and textbooks. I also received Pell grants which helped me stay afloat. The only thing that came out of pocket for me was all my testing.
Bro would u plz tell me which college did u go to? And what was the name of the course u took inorder to become a&p ... Am an international student, planning to come to USA
outstanding! I had no idea what experience was necessary to become an A&P. I have new found respect and it'll be easier to see those aviation maintenance bills! Thanks.
First! Thanks for showing love to us A&Ps! Also, with a community college, no student loans! And depending on where you go, you will pay way less than a private school. And you get a degree.
I went to community college for my A&P. Got my associates as part of that. Eventually I transferred in all my credits and got a bachelors in aircraft maintenance from Embry-Riddle.
@@rayanaltowayan9558 I don’t think the Bachelor degree is really that important if your plan is to be a line mechanic. If you want to get into management down the road it may be helpful!
@@tyronweathermen9864 it has been very well! All A’s through my classes except two, but has been a great experience. Started August, 2022 and about to graduate this coming August 2023, and then test for the cert hopefully in the early group.
I can’t emphasize enough how great a lot of community college programs are. You can literally get your A&P for free with Pell Grants and this way you don’t get a bachelors degree in the subject, which is completely and utterly unnecessary. I got my A&P at a community college after 2 years after finishing my AET and FCC licenses (with AS degree) and it cost me nothing.
@@midomobile2857 I did mine in South Carolina at Trident Technical College, but you can use the Pell Grant at any community college that’s accredited. Just find a CC near you that has an A&P program and then go through the FAFSA process to get your grants.
@@kylel7158 you just sign up. There’s no selection process. You just sign up, and when classes open up (usually has a 1-2 year wait) you just take classes like a regular college class.
@@joke312 For sure. Signed up for FASFA last night and will seek out the Pell Grant(s) next. Thanks for the info. Hopeful A&P student in the upcoming Fall semester.
FAFSA would not offer grants or loans for my community college's A&P program. It would be nice if FAFSA could extend the same assistance to trades as they do to academic careers.
I looked into this where I live. The time and money requirements did not match well with the expected wages of working A&P's. At least not compared to other paths that the same time and money could deliver. I does, however, seem to offer job security since there are more broken / timed out planes than A&P's.
John, Thank you for your valuable information. I have watched your videos on commercial pilot testing and the "How to Become an A&P"; very informative. For that reason I have subscribed to your channel; and I will be looking for other videos that you may have available and for future videos. An awesome channel. Thank you for your time and kind consideration. Faithfully, James
I just wish that the FAA had extended the testing deadlines during covid. I went to a part 147, paid out of my own pocket, covid hit and now I’m at the end of my 24 month period to finish my general oral exam. So I have to start the general test again…
First off, that dude has a sweet beard. Also, thanks for the info. I didn’t realize you could get an A&P based from experience building your own aircraft.
I am working on my A&P licence only I'm doing it through on job training (OJT). I'm working on commercial aircraft and documenting my experience in order to get my A&P license. I am getting paid to learn instead of going to school. It takes 18 months exsperience for my A licence and 36 months for both A&P. It takes a little longer than school but 1 I don't have to pay for it and 2 I will be licensed for most things once I get my A, so hence better pay while also working towards my P
FAR's are clear, 30 months combined, 18 months individually. In other words, if you work 18 months and test-out for just the Airframe certificate, then it will take you another 18 months for your Powerplant certificate, 36 months total. However if you do both concurrently, Airframe & Powerplant, only 30 months. BTW - 30 months is equal to 5400 hrs of full-time work experience; Dept of Labor considers full-time work as 2080 hrs in 12 months. B. Thompson, A&P/IA/GROL and C-ASMEL-I/AGI/IGI.
Hello Mat. Please can you spare sometime and put me through on how to get these OJT’s? I’m graduating this summer(aircraft Engr) with a very cgpa of 4.87 but my school gave us little opportunities for internships and practicals. Please how can I apply for OJT and start gaining experience? I very anxious and eager to learn and be taught.
Just one thing. If I remember right, building an airplane gets you a “repairman” certificate, not the A&P. It allows you to perform an annual on the airplane you built and only that one. In addition, that repairman certificate doesn’t allow you to translate over to an A&P. One of my instructors built an RV-6, but then went to school to get the A&P to work on other aircraft.
I would like to get A&P but already have a career and its just so much work. Wish there waere more catagorys and they could be worked on more selectivly so I could repair a cessna or other small craft but not have to be qualified to work on a dreamliner.
Everything takes a lot of work and time. Its important to have multiple sources of income. You could work under and A&P to log your hours. If you have interest in something, don't deny an idea right away, go for it!
Volunteer! Sometimes the time is difficult to find, but I have been earning towards my A&P for the last 9 months volunteering in a shop at my airport. I come in and help with 50hr oil changes / plug inspections and 100hr inspections. On the odd occasion I get to help install an avionics package or do metal work. I have already acquired over 800 hours of logged A&P experience and it's all been FREE.
Have you talked to your FSDO on what their requirement is? FAR requirements are 30 months experience for the A&P. 40 hours a week that’s close to 5k hours.
@@RobtheAviator Let's see if we can post this, UA-cam for whatever reason deleted my first reply. FAR requirements are 30 hours which comes out to approximately 2.5yrs of experience. But they do not dictate 5,000 hours of logged experience. The FAA specifically states 1,900 is a requirement but stipulates that more may be needed by the FSDO. What I've been told ~2,400 is an acceptable amount provided you pass your practical and writtens to an acceptable degree. 2,500 / 30 = 80hrs/mo. Which equals ~20hrs a week. Or if you work 5 days a week on it, thats about 4hrs a day M-F. Which is what youd probably spend at a school like Spartan. Minus the $60k investment.
@@Keys879 now that I think about it, the 1900 hour requirement is taken from the FAR 147.21, which applies to A&P school. It does not apply to OJT, that’s part 65. No hours are given just months. I have always been told full-time is the requirement. But good luck!
@@RobtheAviator As per the FAA, talking to seasoned A&Ps, etc. I have been told numerous times that Full Time is not required. Only logged experience and demonstrated ability. If it takes you 5 years PT, that's fine. The important factor is skill and knowledge. The irony is in my 8 months of practical experience I have had more experience with repairs than most A&P certified graduates. There is something to be said for working in an actual shop than merely sitting in a classroom.
Great content! By the way you guys know about the process for foreigners? Because I’m a certified technician, but under Brazilian regulatory body. Thank you!
The military fleet hasn't included fabric covered piston aircraft for a long time. Those gaps in knowledge is where I had to really study and rely on the A&P prep course.
In the US, you aren’t required to have avionics certification. Rated A&P / IA or repair station is all that’s needed with caveats like proper tooling/training etc
@@TheReadBaron91 Interesting, as I spoke with some schools who do avionics installation training and the answers were all over the place, but a popular answer was that with avionics installation training I don't need to be an A&P.
@@zz3709 at a repair station, you won’t need an A&P, an “independent” would need at least an airframe, but then couldn’t do installs like engine monitors.
Classic !? Haha Epprecntice was the best way but I’d hardly call it the CLASSIC way. lol I got paid the whole time I was an apprentice. Took my O,P,s that was pricey 3 k with hotel and everything. Drove far too. 7 hours each way so hotel was needed.
Hi john! just passed my written exam for the ppl and now im kinda lost on what to do... I decided to take the ground school course and pass my written exam before my training, but now what can i do that i passed?? Do need to sign up for a flight school now to gain hours or can I just hire any cfi?? Also please do a video on how to apply for the AOPA insurance or any other insurance for flying. Thank you so much for everything you do! FLY8MA helped me so much with passing my exam! best channel on UA-cam as far as aviation info!!
@@shiftnsix Hi Adam, yes, I did end up joining my local flight school and I am currently check ride ready, at about 65-70 hours. I have also joined a flight club that has provided me opportunities to fly all types of different aircraft from a b-35 bonanza to a 1945 Ercoupe. Hope to keep this dream soaring!!!!
@@alphahotel0076 awesome! Thanks for the update and congratulations on your achievement. Currently studying for the written and will be following in your footsteps shortly.
I hold a PPL, live within 20 minutes of Sporty’s and will go there soon to ask about the possibility of an apprenticeship and if nothing available there, I will seek another IA or A&P to apprentice under. This way I can earn pay while learning and make sure this is the path for me. Oh … I’ve zero experience.
I went to college and became a pilot after my time in the USAF. Can I still do online courses and use my experience to qualify for the test? I can't quit my job flying to apprentice or go to classes, but I'd like to get the A&P if I can.
We have a HUGE shortage of A&Ps in northern Nevada. My shop is taking five months to do an annual on a piston single. I have urged (begged!) to raise his shop rates to at least be equal to that of the local Subaru dealer's shop. A&Ps really really REALLY need to paid better than auto mechanics. And I am writing as an aircraft owner. I would rather pay more and keep my aircraft flying than be a cheapskate with grounded aircraft.
This has always saddened me about the profession. Aircraft mechanics are bosses, and I have worked with some guys who I thought were the best in the world, but they are grossly underpaid and it sucks. Airlines pay great at the majors, but not everyone wants to do that.
First time I’ve ever heard an aircraft owner say that! At the same time, that’s a really ridiculously long time for an annual barring extreme situations. Without any major squawks could be about a week (5 working days) in the shop. Typically about 2 weeks though with squawks at our shop
So here is a question that might not get thrown out there. Say you did a "classic" apprenticeship in germany but due to covid you couldn't get the final exam done. Is there a way to make up the "lost" time in the united states? Because essentially you did all your homework, are basically done with the studies and are a finished A&P. But due to german regulations you are without a final exam and without a license and thus without work. And the answer from the german counterparts and people you gotta talk to is 90% of the time: "Find another shop and start over" which isn't an option.
There is a way to convert a license, but I don't know if you can convert experience like that. However, it doesn't hurt to call around to several FSDO offices and see if someone is willing to sign off your tickets using your foreign time.
Could someone plz guide me abt which college should i apply and which course should i take to become a&p . Also are there any scholarships available for this course? Am an international student.
@@fly8ma.comflighttraining199 Can u please tell me the name of the course that i should take? (I've completed my bachelor's in physics) I only know about aviation maintenance science program in embry riddle.
When I look at all the training, education, preparation, apprenticeship time, and legal and moral weight that comes with these jobs, and then I look at the the wages, it's totally clear to me why there is a shortage of people to fill these positions.
@@braaap6292 Worked on aircraft for six years for the navy. 5 active and 1 for a dod contractor. You literally read the book and do the maintenance by the book. If you do that you are incapable of making a mistake. Watch air disasters 99% of mistakes are from people not following proper procedures be it operating to maintenance.
That's the theory, but reality can be different. Say you follow the book on an engine rebuild, and your torque wrench is not functioning properly, but you don't know it. You think those rod bolts are torqued properly, but they really aren't. Plane goes up, throws a rod through the case on takeoff and the plane crashes. They're coming for your ass, even though you technically did everything right. Now you have to deal with the stress of proving you weren't negligent. It's easy to see why you would want to avoid that by making similar money in a job without those risks.
@Braaap All I can say about that is based on experience in the Navy and working with the Navy as a civi that so long as the calibration on the torque wrench is up to date and the tool is not physically broken then you are in the clear. I don't know if similar requirements for calibration exist on the civilian side. I hear Boeing is absolutely terrible with tool control so just that alone is far different than what I experienced. I can definitely relate on beings accountable though cause if something like that happened as an investigator the last maintenance on the assembly is pretty much where you start looking for possible causes of mishap aside from operator error or external factors. I remember signing off my first maintenance actions and how I knew if something went wrong it was literally my name on the paperwork. After a few weeks of putting my name on stuff the anxiety went away except for some of the more complicated maintenance actions. I know for a fact there are planes and engines out there flying with my work keeping them up and that makes me proud.
PRESSURE...If you work EMS Helicopters or something like that, there is immense pressure to have aircraft troubleshot and repaired quickly, sometimes a simple question from a pilot can turn into a 12 hour repair job, when you were just supposed to on call
@@rnelson299 did he let you use the book and your notes..i failed my first O&P I gotta pay out of pocket to retest..but I keep hearing the examiner supposed to let you use notes and at least the 43.13
@@DG-lo9mv No I didn’t use any notes whatsoever and he’s very fair. Also he’s not racist so you being black isn’t going to make a difference. He provided me some strips of 43:13 for projects I needed.
Thanks for this. Is there one school recognised by the industry as the best in the country? I'm an older guy and I want the best bang for my buck and will travel to wherever that is.
Best bang for the buck? Local community college. The program is relatively standard. I wouldn’t say that there’s THE school to attend. I don’t see it like that. Best bang for the buck is community college by far. You get more from there than at a private A&P school.
Go to a community college and get the license. The real experience comes when you’re on the job. I am a pilot now, but got my A&P initially (and I was not very good at it). We had kids in that class that were incredible car mechanics and THEY are the ones who become good A&Ps. So if you are already a mechanic or have a mechanical inclination and a good work eithc, then you already will probably be a good mechanic. The A&P just lets you legally work on aircraft. The actual skill comes from mechanical aptitude (and of course the regulatory and airplane specific things you learn in school).
Having a degree (AS or BS) and an A&P is always a good thing. Sets you apart from other candidates when applying for jobs. B. Thompson, A&P/IA/GROL and C-ASMEL-I/AGI/IGI.
In Canada it’s not much more than minimum wage when apprenticing. I’ve met countless people that used to be AME’s because it just doesn’t pay. The very first day of school the teacher said “if you’re here for the money, leave now”. I stayed because I loved aviation. Made it 20 years before I got tired of never getting raising and having to keep moving my family to whatever town marketing decided the plane was going to be parked at for the next year or two. 13 years of straight nights was taking its toll on my health. Quit and hit the oil patch and was making more by my second year than I was as a licensed and endorsed AME (AME is equal to an inspector in the U.S) with 20 years experience…and I’m not on call or working nights.
§ 65.77 Experience requirements Each applicant for a mechanic certificate or rating must present either - (a) An authenticated document from a certificated aviation maintenance technician school in accordance with § 147.21 of this chapter; or (b) Documentary evidence, satisfactory to the Administrator, of - (1) At least 18 months of practical experience with the procedures, practices, materials, tools, machine tools, and equipment generally used in constructing, maintaining, or altering airframes or powerplants, appropriate to the rating sought; or (2) At least 30 months of practical experience concurrently performing the duties appropriate to both the airframe and powerplant ratings.
Do me three favours; -please turn the intro audio down, it's excessively loud, -if you say "the link to his channel is in the description", please include it in the description, -please give either a disclaimer this is only for the US or give info about options in other countries. Cheers
It should be obvious that this is aimed at the U.S. only. Foreign aviation regulatory agencies are too varied to be noted in one video. B. Thompson, A&P/IA/GROL and C-ASMEL-I/AGI/IGI.
Most aviation content is based out of the US. Hate to put it that way. But that’s how it is. Even individuals from other countries come to the US to get American pilot certificates! They do it because it’s cheaper (can’t see how, it’s already distressingly high here in the US). As such, those individuals would be seeking US-based content since that is what they will be falling under anyway. What other countries are you referring to? I’ve understood that several foreign agencies are very restrictive on what is shown or shared. I mean, in some countries, having an air band scanner is illegal! Other times, they restrict such knowledge to the military. Just curious, no malicious intent here.
I've been an A&P since 1976 and an got an IA in 1984. I went to a really good old A&P school that taught you all kinds of stuff and was an aircraft electrician in the USMC before that .@@peekingturtle8457
I have been a A&P since 1990 it has been a tough but rewarding Career. The pay these days is Excellent , 6 figures is completely with in your grasp as a A&P. Like anything in life you get out of it what you put into it!!!!!!! Many opportunities to be had in aviation. Any skill trade these days is a vary good way to go. Guess I will have to edit this post. Yes the pay is not so good in ga. A&P needs to get with a 121 Operator or go be a contractor you can make tons of money. Top out for most Major airlines is like 7 to 8 years average, not 20 years . If you are a job jumper that is on you.
*six figures is in your grasp, but not in GA! Not trying to complain as I feel I’m compensated well for what I do in GA but you won’t get six figures at the vast majority of GA places.
Maybe, as a Director of maintenance at a large repair station you could pull that much. But not as a mechanic in GA
@@TheReadBaron91 just went through the interview with one of the biggest regional airlines owned by major less than a month ago. They offered 23.14/hr. I’m an A&P IA with more than 6 years total experience on turbine helos, turboprops and recips ga planes.
Idk how should I survive with this kind of pay rate having a family. As well as idk what six figures everyone keeps talking about. You would probably do more working on cars nowadays.
@@TheReadBaron91 jobs are offered all over, 6 digits easy!!! 32-40+/hr normal pay not including OT..if anyone offered me 23/hr as an A&P, I'd take that as an insult...
@Dmitriy Septarov at that pay rate, and being an IA, I'd be insulted..I was making that pay rate back in the mid 90's before I was licensed.
@@n1ksf I haven’t seen them at any GA shop paying that much. Haven’t been job hunting either though. I’d expect most GA shops are paying $20-30 based on experience for shop floor personnel, of course management and leads may see just above that. I’m above $25 with IA but less than $30. 5 years experience not including my military time .
I have been doing owner assisted annuals on our club planes for years. Didn’t know I could log time. Good to know if I want to get my license. Was talking with my A&p and suggested that I try and get it. I said I wasn’t sure of job market around where I live. He said there are a bunch of non aviation companies that hire a&p’s too. He mentioned an elevator company as one of them. They know you have the training in sheet metal, electrical, hydraulics, general mechanical, etc.. if you are interested in getting your a&p there are more options than you may think.
After local discussions with the EAA here in Reno, I have decided to "go on the warpath" to do all I can to get more people interested in an A&P career. This is a foreign domain for me, and I just now got my first copy of the FAR/AMT book and am trying to understand the business. My intent is to try to start a national movement, using the EAA as a base, to get the FARs changed or at least some Advisory Circulars issued that will allow apprentice A&Ps to earn a decent living while they are building the time needed to take the airframe and powerplant tests. Plus, any other initiatives that could help mitigate these shortages of people. I don't know exactly what to do yet or how to do it, but I am determined.
Noble goal, but it will take an act of congress to get the FAA to agree to something like that. Getting the FAA to change a FAR is like trying to run through rain and not get wet. It’s impossible short of someone dying. And apprentices not getting paid probably won’t kill anyone. Not only that, but apprentices can get paid in shops while they work as repairmen.
Since everything else is subsidized, it may be easier for the EAA to get apprentice hours subsidized. By making it more affordable for smaller shops to take on an apprentice, I think smaller shops would do the legwork of recruiting future mechanics.
Been in the army for almost 6 years as a uh 60 mechanic. Going to extend an additional 2 years so I can get my a&p before I get out. Can’t wait to get started on my civilian career path. I used the Army experience and glad I learned quite a lot from my superiors about aviation maintenance etc.
@@Esb906 I’m looking into that to see if I can still do that while active duty. I might have to attend a 2 year program. The only a&p schoolhouses I’ve heard about are the crash course and 2 year program.
@@Esb906 that’s awesome. So even though you ets you are still authorized bah under the gi bill? I guess the only thing needed would be a job as well lol
This is great stuff! I have already started a logbook to record time spent working on aircraft under my uncle steve. who is an A&P.
I’ll also add this. Depending on the community college, your FAFSA, and other factors, you may not have to pay for your classes at all. That was the case for me in California. I did not have to pay for tuition. All I paid for was semester fees ($30-$50 a semester, including parking permits for the semester), and textbooks. I also received Pell grants which helped me stay afloat. The only thing that came out of pocket for me was all my testing.
But private schools don’t take years to complete either
Bro would u plz tell me which college did u go to?
And what was the name of the course u took inorder to become a&p ...
Am an international student, planning to come to USA
outstanding! I had no idea what experience was necessary to become an A&P. I have new found respect and it'll be easier to see those aviation maintenance bills! Thanks.
Awesome video!
I’m in prep school right now ($3,325) paid for by the Army C.O.O.L. program. Definitely worth it.
First! Thanks for showing love to us A&Ps! Also, with a community college, no student loans! And depending on where you go, you will pay way less than a private school. And you get a degree.
I went to community college for my A&P. Got my associates as part of that. Eventually I transferred in all my credits and got a bachelors in aircraft maintenance from Embry-Riddle.
Guys is it worth it to do a full bachelor degree? Because I'm doing a 2 year diploma right now after which I'll get the license
@@rayanaltowayan9558 I don’t think the Bachelor degree is really that important if your plan is to be a line mechanic. If you want to get into management down the road it may be helpful!
@@RobtheAviator Right behind you bro! Go Eagles!
@@rayanaltowayan9558 I would say no. Management positions want to see different degrees than AC MX.
You can get Pell grants and Student loans for private schools.
I’m about to start a college A&P certificate program starting this coming 31 August, 2022!
How's it going so far?
@@tyronweathermen9864 it has been very well! All A’s through my classes except two, but has been a great experience. Started August, 2022 and about to graduate this coming August 2023, and then test for the cert hopefully in the early group.
@@tannerhughes6274 how did you pay for your classes??
@@tyronweathermen9864 served in the Air Force, honorably separated, and now using the military G.I. Bill to pay for my education.
Just got my A today, 8 more months!
thank you for this info. i'll be done with my program march 2022 i'm kinda nervous for the FAA exams.
That's awesome!! Let us know how you do! If you have any questions feel free to ask!!
How do you like the career so far
I can’t emphasize enough how great a lot of community college programs are. You can literally get your A&P for free with Pell Grants and this way you don’t get a bachelors degree in the subject, which is completely and utterly unnecessary. I got my A&P at a community college after 2 years after finishing my AET and FCC licenses (with AS degree) and it cost me nothing.
Which state plz ? And which cc ?
@@midomobile2857 I did mine in South Carolina at Trident Technical College, but you can use the Pell Grant at any community college that’s accredited. Just find a CC near you that has an A&P program and then go through the FAFSA process to get your grants.
@@joke312 you have to qualify though, correct? This isn't something that's so easy to attain I'm assuming? How's the selection process?
@@kylel7158 you just sign up. There’s no selection process. You just sign up, and when classes open up (usually has a 1-2 year wait) you just take classes like a regular college class.
@@joke312 For sure. Signed up for FASFA last night and will seek out the Pell Grant(s) next. Thanks for the info. Hopeful A&P student in the upcoming Fall semester.
Finally someone that talks about salary!!!
FAFSA would not offer grants or loans for my community college's A&P program. It would be nice if FAFSA could extend the same assistance to trades as they do to academic careers.
I looked into this where I live. The time and money requirements did not match well with the expected wages of working A&P's. At least not compared to other paths that the same time and money could deliver.
I does, however, seem to offer job security since there are more broken / timed out planes than A&P's.
you get your license and then travel to more beneficial spots
John,
Thank you for your valuable information. I have watched your videos on commercial pilot testing and the "How to Become an A&P"; very informative. For that reason I have subscribed to your channel; and I will be looking for other videos that you may have available and for future videos. An awesome channel.
Thank you for your time and kind consideration.
Faithfully,
James
I just wish that the FAA had extended the testing deadlines during covid.
I went to a part 147, paid out of my own pocket, covid hit and now I’m at the end of my 24 month period to finish my general oral exam.
So I have to start the general test again…
What is the best type of job or company if you want to take the OJT route?
First off, that dude has a sweet beard. Also, thanks for the info. I didn’t realize you could get an A&P based from experience building your own aircraft.
Thank you!
Definitely a complete flip flop from active duty. The guy with the beard was an active duty helicopter mechanic- believe HH-60s.
3 months left of school for me !!!
I am working on my A&P licence only I'm doing it through on job training (OJT). I'm working on commercial aircraft and documenting my experience in order to get my A&P license. I am getting paid to learn instead of going to school. It takes 18 months exsperience for my A licence and 36 months for both A&P. It takes a little longer than school but 1 I don't have to pay for it and 2 I will be licensed for most things once I get my A, so hence better pay while also working towards my P
Make sure you also study and understand the material for the tests. The job you have won't cover much of the required knowledge at all.
@@jgschoenwolf I will for sure, I've heard the tests can be difficult so when I'm ready to take it I will do lots of studying beforehand
FAR's are clear, 30 months combined, 18 months individually. In other words, if you work 18 months and test-out for just the Airframe certificate, then it will take you another 18 months for your Powerplant certificate, 36 months total. However if you do both concurrently, Airframe & Powerplant, only 30 months. BTW - 30 months is equal to 5400 hrs of full-time work experience; Dept of Labor considers full-time work as 2080 hrs in 12 months. B. Thompson, A&P/IA/GROL and C-ASMEL-I/AGI/IGI.
Sounds like you're on your way. I would still recommend one of the test prep courses.
Hello Mat. Please can you spare sometime and put me through on how to get these OJT’s? I’m graduating this summer(aircraft Engr) with a very cgpa of 4.87 but my school gave us little opportunities for internships and practicals. Please how can I apply for OJT and start gaining experience? I very anxious and eager to learn and be taught.
Thank you!
That was excellent all around!!
Glad it was helpful!
You have to love turning the wrench to survive this profession. If not it will be misery. Pursue your passion whatever it may be.
Just one thing. If I remember right, building an airplane gets you a “repairman” certificate, not the A&P. It allows you to perform an annual on the airplane you built and only that one. In addition, that repairman certificate doesn’t allow you to translate over to an A&P. One of my instructors built an RV-6, but then went to school to get the A&P to work on other aircraft.
Experimental and light sport don't need an A&P to return the aircraft back to service.
Building the aircraft doesn't get you an A&P but it will get a bucket full of hours to apply to your required experience.
@@jgschoenwolf The work has to be done as an apprentice. You can't just build an airplane by yourself and expect to get credited the apprentice hours.
An A&P would have to supervise your build and sign your Mx logbook to show experience.
@@claytonstarwalt9914 Yeah almost like an apprentice.
I REALLY want you to give us a tour of that Rans S20!
I would like to get A&P but already have a career and its just so much work. Wish there waere more catagorys and they could be worked on more selectivly so I could repair a cessna or other small craft but not have to be qualified to work on a dreamliner.
Everything takes a lot of work and time. Its important to have multiple sources of income. You could work under and A&P to log your hours. If you have interest in something, don't deny an idea right away, go for it!
Volunteer! Sometimes the time is difficult to find, but I have been earning towards my A&P for the last 9 months volunteering in a shop at my airport. I come in and help with 50hr oil changes / plug inspections and 100hr inspections. On the odd occasion I get to help install an avionics package or do metal work. I have already acquired over 800 hours of logged A&P experience and it's all been FREE.
Have you talked to your FSDO on what their requirement is? FAR requirements are 30 months experience for the A&P. 40 hours a week that’s close to 5k hours.
@@RobtheAviator Let's see if we can post this, UA-cam for whatever reason deleted my first reply.
FAR requirements are 30 hours which comes out to approximately 2.5yrs of experience. But they do not dictate 5,000 hours of logged experience. The FAA specifically states 1,900 is a requirement but stipulates that more may be needed by the FSDO. What I've been told ~2,400 is an acceptable amount provided you pass your practical and writtens to an acceptable degree.
2,500 / 30 = 80hrs/mo. Which equals ~20hrs a week. Or if you work 5 days a week on it, thats about 4hrs a day M-F. Which is what youd probably spend at a school like Spartan. Minus the $60k investment.
@@Keys879 good info!
@@Keys879 now that I think about it, the 1900 hour requirement is taken from the FAR 147.21, which applies to A&P school. It does not apply to OJT, that’s part 65. No hours are given just months. I have always been told full-time is the requirement. But good luck!
@@RobtheAviator As per the FAA, talking to seasoned A&Ps, etc. I have been told numerous times that Full Time is not required. Only logged experience and demonstrated ability. If it takes you 5 years PT, that's fine. The important factor is skill and knowledge.
The irony is in my 8 months of practical experience I have had more experience with repairs than most A&P certified graduates. There is something to be said for working in an actual shop than merely sitting in a classroom.
What is AET difference from an AP? Great info laid out well thanks
Great content! By the way you guys know about the process for foreigners? Because I’m a certified technician, but under Brazilian regulatory body. Thank you!
Whoa! Who listed the Navy third!
Naval Aviation IS aviation.
:)
Does the military experience include Piston engines? Also, is there any experience in fabric coverings?
No. Every A&P I met coming out of the military had to study that. Everything in the military fleet is jet, and metal or composite.
The military fleet hasn't included fabric covered piston aircraft for a long time. Those gaps in knowledge is where I had to really study and rely on the A&P prep course.
I didn’t learn pistons in the military but was able to get my AP off my experience in it
John, I would love to see something similar for avionics technicians certificates/licenses, to be able to do installations. Any leads on that?
In the US, you aren’t required to have avionics certification. Rated A&P / IA or repair station is all that’s needed with caveats like proper tooling/training etc
@@TheReadBaron91 Interesting, as I spoke with some schools who do avionics installation training and the answers were all over the place, but a popular answer was that with avionics installation training I don't need to be an A&P.
@@zz3709 at a repair station, you won’t need an A&P, an “independent” would need at least an airframe, but then couldn’t do installs like engine monitors.
Good overview on the process.
LOVE all of your videos👍
Classic !? Haha Epprecntice was the best way but I’d hardly call it the CLASSIC way. lol
I got paid the whole time I was an apprentice. Took my O,P,s that was pricey 3 k with hotel and everything. Drove far too. 7 hours each way so hotel was needed.
Thanks for these video
My pleasure
Hi john! just passed my written exam for the ppl and now im kinda lost on what to do... I decided to take the ground school course and pass my written exam before my training, but now what can i do that i passed?? Do need to sign up for a flight school now to gain hours or can I just hire any cfi?? Also please do a video on how to apply for the AOPA insurance or any other insurance for flying. Thank you so much for everything you do! FLY8MA helped me so much with passing my exam! best channel on UA-cam as far as aviation info!!
Just curious if you ever took the next step. Did you get your PPL?
@@shiftnsix Hi Adam, yes, I did end up joining my local flight school and I am currently check ride ready, at about 65-70 hours. I have also joined a flight club that has provided me opportunities to fly all types of different aircraft from a b-35 bonanza to a 1945 Ercoupe. Hope to keep this dream soaring!!!!
@@alphahotel0076 awesome! Thanks for the update and congratulations on your achievement. Currently studying for the written and will be following in your footsteps shortly.
@@shiftnsix Thanks so much!! good luck on your written & also beginning your pilot career :)
Hi, i have a mild color deficiency. would this be a problem if i want to be an aircraft mechanic?
I hold a PPL, live within 20 minutes of Sporty’s and will go there soon to ask about the possibility of an apprenticeship and if nothing available there, I will seek another IA or A&P to apprentice under.
This way I can earn pay while learning and make sure this is the path for me.
Oh … I’ve zero experience.
Wishing you the best from FLY8MA!
I went to college and became a pilot after my time in the USAF. Can I still do online courses and use my experience to qualify for the test? I can't quit my job flying to apprentice or go to classes, but I'd like to get the A&P if I can.
Here are some courses that you might be interested in: learn.fly8ma.com/all-courses/
Awesome vid
We have a HUGE shortage of A&Ps in northern Nevada. My shop is taking five months to do an annual on a piston single. I have urged (begged!) to raise his shop rates to at least be equal to that of the local Subaru dealer's shop. A&Ps really really REALLY need to paid better than auto mechanics. And I am writing as an aircraft owner. I would rather pay more and keep my aircraft flying than be a cheapskate with grounded aircraft.
This has always saddened me about the profession. Aircraft mechanics are bosses, and I have worked with some guys who I thought were the best in the world, but they are grossly underpaid and it sucks. Airlines pay great at the majors, but not everyone wants to do that.
First time I’ve ever heard an aircraft owner say that!
At the same time, that’s a really ridiculously long time for an annual barring extreme situations. Without any major squawks could be about a week (5 working days) in the shop. Typically about 2 weeks though with squawks at our shop
I want to become one but I don’t know how to apply I’m immigrant in USA
So here is a question that might not get thrown out there. Say you did a "classic" apprenticeship in germany but due to covid you couldn't get the final exam done. Is there a way to make up the "lost" time in the united states? Because essentially you did all your homework, are basically done with the studies and are a finished A&P. But due to german regulations you are without a final exam and without a license and thus without work.
And the answer from the german counterparts and people you gotta talk to is 90% of the time: "Find another shop and start over" which isn't an option.
It’ll be the same coming from the US. You might have to talk to an FAA representative in the US.
@@golfnovember thank you very much!
There is a way to convert a license, but I don't know if you can convert experience like that. However, it doesn't hurt to call around to several FSDO offices and see if someone is willing to sign off your tickets using your foreign time.
Could someone plz guide me abt which college should i apply and which course should i take to become a&p .
Also are there any scholarships available for this course? Am an international student.
There are a ton of great options when it comes to being an A&P. Find a location that best fits your needs. Come over and explore
@@fly8ma.comflighttraining199
Can u please tell me the name of the course that i should take? (I've completed my bachelor's in physics)
I only know about aviation maintenance science program in embry riddle.
Thanks
When I look at all the training, education, preparation, apprenticeship time, and legal and moral weight that comes with these jobs, and then I look at the the wages, it's totally clear to me why there is a shortage of people to fill these positions.
Do it by the book and you have nothing to fear.
That's like saying "Never make a mistake and you'll be fine."
@@braaap6292 Worked on aircraft for six years for the navy. 5 active and 1 for a dod contractor. You literally read the book and do the maintenance by the book. If you do that you are incapable of making a mistake. Watch air disasters 99% of mistakes are from people not following proper procedures be it operating to maintenance.
That's the theory, but reality can be different. Say you follow the book on an engine rebuild, and your torque wrench is not functioning properly, but you don't know it. You think those rod bolts are torqued properly, but they really aren't. Plane goes up, throws a rod through the case on takeoff and the plane crashes. They're coming for your ass, even though you technically did everything right. Now you have to deal with the stress of proving you weren't negligent. It's easy to see why you would want to avoid that by making similar money in a job without those risks.
@Braaap All I can say about that is based on experience in the Navy and working with the Navy as a civi that so long as the calibration on the torque wrench is up to date and the tool is not physically broken then you are in the clear. I don't know if similar requirements for calibration exist on the civilian side. I hear Boeing is absolutely terrible with tool control so just that alone is far different than what I experienced. I can definitely relate on beings accountable though cause if something like that happened as an investigator the last maintenance on the assembly is pretty much where you start looking for possible causes of mishap aside from operator error or external factors. I remember signing off my first maintenance actions and how I knew if something went wrong it was literally my name on the paperwork. After a few weeks of putting my name on stuff the anxiety went away except for some of the more complicated maintenance actions. I know for a fact there are planes and engines out there flying with my work keeping them up and that makes me proud.
Is John just short or is Brian really tall? :D
Both.
PRESSURE...If you work EMS Helicopters or something like that, there is immense pressure to have aircraft troubleshot and repaired quickly, sometimes a simple question from a pilot can turn into a 12 hour repair job, when you were just supposed to on call
Can you please elaborate a little more please I’m interested in Amt!
I just got my A&P yesterday. My examiner said he didn’t become rich but he sure didn’t miss enough meals to prevent his plump belly.
I’m taking the A&p test soon..how was the O&P part of the test?
@@DG-lo9mv Oral and practical parts were very easy but the guy I did it with was a super easy examiner.
@@rnelson299 did he let you use the book and your notes..i failed my first O&P I gotta pay out of pocket to retest..but I keep hearing the examiner supposed to let you use notes and at least the 43.13
I’m a black man btw he could be making it hard for me
@@DG-lo9mv No I didn’t use any notes whatsoever and he’s very fair. Also he’s not racist so you being black isn’t going to make a difference. He provided me some strips of 43:13 for projects I needed.
Thanks for this. Is there one school recognised by the industry as the best in the country? I'm an older guy and I want the best bang for my buck and will travel to wherever that is.
Best bang for the buck? Local community college. The program is relatively standard. I wouldn’t say that there’s THE school to attend. I don’t see it like that. Best bang for the buck is community college by far. You get more from there than at a private A&P school.
Go to a community college and get the license. The real experience comes when you’re on the job. I am a pilot now, but got my A&P initially (and I was not very good at it). We had kids in that class that were incredible car mechanics and THEY are the ones who become good A&Ps. So if you are already a mechanic or have a mechanical inclination and a good work eithc, then you already will probably be a good mechanic. The A&P just lets you legally work on aircraft. The actual skill comes from mechanical aptitude (and of course the regulatory and airplane specific things you learn in school).
Private schools don’t take years to complete like local community college - Time is money
30$ per hour is very poor considering the liability and qual reguirments involved
Diploma or bachelor degree? Which one should we get
Having a degree (AS or BS) and an A&P is always a good thing. Sets you apart from other candidates when applying for jobs. B. Thompson, A&P/IA/GROL and C-ASMEL-I/AGI/IGI.
When you’re an A&P, every pilot is now “hey asshole.”
What happens if I'm the A&P and the pilot?
Also be aware that your A & P is just a license to learn. You can not do work that you have not done supervised before in a 12 calendar months!
The aircraft behind you...what is it?
RANS S-20!
What if you're afraid you're not smart enough to be an A&P? What if you think you're not cut out for the level of responsibilities?
Whether you think you are or are not you are correct 😉
@@joeyjetmech481 congrats man!
Did you ever end up pursuing your A&P? How was your experience with the program
@@chrismorrison52no I never pursued it unfortunately
*Get your A&P license from a public community college or public technical school.....it will cost MUCH LESS for the same license.*
USA Army, Ft. Eustis, Virginia.
Anybody know what a good wage/salary for a A&P apprentice is ? If we take the OTJ route
In Canada it’s not much more than minimum wage when apprenticing. I’ve met countless people that used to be AME’s because it just doesn’t pay. The very first day of school the teacher said “if you’re here for the money, leave now”. I stayed because I loved aviation. Made it 20 years before I got tired of never getting raising and having to keep moving my family to whatever town marketing decided the plane was going to be parked at for the next year or two. 13 years of straight nights was taking its toll on my health. Quit and hit the oil patch and was making more by my second year than I was as a licensed and endorsed AME (AME is equal to an inspector in the U.S) with 20 years experience…and I’m not on call or working nights.
@@gpaull2 ame or A&P?
Everyone's experience is different. Start by looking at the bureau of labor and statistics in your area for aircraft maintenance jobs.
$15/hr
What was the point of interviewing this guy? You didn't let him talk 🤫
§ 65.77 Experience requirements
Each applicant for a mechanic certificate or rating must present either -
(a) An authenticated document from a certificated aviation maintenance technician school in accordance with § 147.21 of this chapter; or
(b) Documentary evidence, satisfactory to the Administrator, of -
(1) At least 18 months of practical experience with the procedures, practices, materials, tools, machine tools, and equipment generally used in constructing, maintaining, or altering airframes or powerplants, appropriate to the rating sought; or
(2) At least 30 months of practical experience concurrently performing the duties appropriate to both the airframe and powerplant ratings.
It’s a lot of work for $30/hr
In California I’ve seen some jobs hiring starting at 42 an hour and I’ve seen some go up to 60 an hour
For how many hours a week? I’m currently looking forward to learn AMT
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Do me three favours;
-please turn the intro audio down, it's excessively loud,
-if you say "the link to his channel is in the description", please include it in the description,
-please give either a disclaimer this is only for the US or give info about options in other countries.
Cheers
Audio is fine. You turn it down.
It should be obvious that this is aimed at the U.S. only. Foreign aviation regulatory agencies are too varied to be noted in one video. B. Thompson, A&P/IA/GROL and C-ASMEL-I/AGI/IGI.
Most aviation content is based out of the US. Hate to put it that way. But that’s how it is. Even individuals from other countries come to the US to get American pilot certificates! They do it because it’s cheaper (can’t see how, it’s already distressingly high here in the US). As such, those individuals would be seeking US-based content since that is what they will be falling under anyway.
What other countries are you referring to? I’ve understood that several foreign agencies are very restrictive on what is shown or shared. I mean, in some countries, having an air band scanner is illegal! Other times, they restrict such knowledge to the military. Just curious, no malicious intent here.
There is no way you can learn "on the job" all the stuff you need to know. Total BS
I've been an A&P since 1976 and an got an IA in 1984. I went to a really good old A&P school that taught you all kinds of stuff and was an aircraft electrician in the USMC before that .@@peekingturtle8457
I wouldn't want to fly in anything that was worked on by a guy being paid $18/hr.
That's why you should hire me. I charge $10,000 per day and I am only booking Tuesdays.
@@arcanondrum6543 hilarious 🤣