Career Guide is a series of occupational briefs which aims to provide information on hard to fill and highly-in-demand occupations identified during the 2006 National Manpower Summit and the 2007 National Human Resource Conference. The Career Guides contain such information as the nature of the job, its education and competency requirements, earnings, employment and job outlook.

Aircraft Mechanic

Aircraft Mechanics fit, service, repair and overhaul aircraft components, engines, accessories and related equipment.

Tasks

Fit, examine, test and service aircraft engines;
Replace engine components or complete engines;
Analyze test data to evaluate the condition of engine, aircraft and equipment;
Compile information from measurements and performance test;
Compare the state of items such as fuel and oil levels and tire pressures, and the condition and cleanliness of mechanical equipment to required standards;
Work close to tolerances, and use precision measuring instruments and testing equipment to ensure adjustments and repairs are made according to manufacturer’s specification standards;
manipulating hand and power tools to repair or replace defective parts.

Basic Educational Requirements

There is no prescribed course or field of study for prospective Aircraft Mechanics; however, an aviation-related course would be an advantage. Among the courses offered are Bachelor of Science in Aircraft Technology (4 years) and Aircraft Technician Course (2 years). Aircraft Mechanics are required to have a license from the Air Transportation Office (ATO) before they can perform their duties. The licensing process includes written examinations and panel interviews where a longer period of study in an aviation-related field is an advantage. For Aircraft Mechanics, the rules stipulate a practicum or on-the-job experience in an authorized aircraft maintenance or repair station. Because of the technical requirements of the job, new entrants to the workforce need to familiarize themselves with the equipment and must have a theoretical and practical knowledge of the job.

Skills and Competencies

Mathematical , analytical and communication skills;
Mechanical aptitude with a thorough knowledge of basic Math.

Physical Attributes and Characteristics

Must have an analytical mind since this occupation involves work activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.

Salary/Compensation

In the local labor market, a Junior Mechanic receives approximately P20,199 per month. For an Aircraft Mechanic A position, the base pay starts at P30,000. Additional benefits include premiums for overtime work on rest days, holidays, and special days; car acquisition; rice subsidy; training opportunities; and health care maintenance. In the U.S, base pay is much higher at an average of P68,000 per month. In Singapore, the rate is around 3,000 Singaporean dollars per month (P96,865) while in the United Arab Emirates, the pay scale is about 3,713 dirham per month (P52,767).

Prospects for Career Advancement

It takes some five to six years before an Aircraft Mechanic can acquire a Mechanic A position which give them opportunities to become Aircraft Inspectors. Those with broad experience in maintenance and overhaul can, advance to lead inspector or shop supervisor positions.

Those who undergo additional business and management training can open their own aircraft maintenance facilities.

Employment Opportunities

In a forecast made in 2004, it was projected that from 2004 - 2023, air passenger traffic will grow by 5% per annum. This will require a delivery of 16,601 new passenger aircrafts. By 2023, there will be 21,759 passenger aircrafts in service throughout the world. This will mean that airlines will be competing for skilled aircraft personnel including Aircraft Mechanics.

Overseas, the following have signified their intentions to hire Aircraft Mechanics from other countries: Singapore, Hongkong, Qatar and Saudi Arabia, among others. Locally, job prospects will be high to fill-up positions that have been vacated by those who voluntarily leave their jobs for overseas employment and those who have retired.

Cost of Education *

An Aircraft Technician Course costs around P100,000 covering 2 years of schooling.
The 4 year course on Aircraft Maintenance Technology would cost approximately P160,000.

* Based on tuition fee rates for school year 2007 - 2008