For safe aircraft operations, it is vital that all maintenance, repair, overhaul and modification work of an aircraft is carried out regularly. These functions are best dealt with people who have the requisite technical knowhow; namely by engineers adequately qualified and having the required knowledge, experience and high degree of competence. It is not enough to study aircraft maintenance engineering. To be a practising one, students need the requisite license from the Director-General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) who conducts examinations and also issues Basic Maintenance Engineer's Certificate (BAMEC) as well as Aircraft Maintenance Engineer's (AW) Licence to those candidates who pass the applicable examinations and meet all other eligibility requirements.

Career Roles & Responsibilities

Performing Maintenance

Aircraft maintenance engineers ensure safety across assigned aircraft. In order to do this, they perform maintenance, both scheduled and emergency. This can include dismantling, inspecting, testing, repairing and reassembling aircraft engines; installing electrical circuits; testing aircraft communication equipment, aircraft instrumentation, and electronic systems; replacing and testing aircraft oxygen system components; assembling parts and subassemblies of aircraft frames; and conducting routine preflight inspections of engines and mechanical systems. They are also required to keep detailed records of the maintenance performed.

Maintain Facilities

Aircraft maintenance engineers are required to maintain their company’s facilities and equipment as directed by the leadership team. This includes ordering parts and supplies as needed.

Uphold Safety and Security Measures

Aircraft maintenance engineers must be familiar with all relevant safety and security rules and procedures. Aircraft engineering is a critical safety function with a direct link in the chain of events that could lead to any kind of aircraft incident, making it imperative that all applicable licensing and procedures are held at the highest standard. By upholding safety and security measures, successful aircraft maintenance engineers will be prepared for any FAA inspections.

Career Education Path Summary

Where to do the aircraft maintenance engineering course?

It is mandatory to study aircraft maintenance engineering at DGCA approves AME Training Institutes which are authorised to impart ab-initio training in the field of aircraft maintenance. To check the list of AME Training Institutes, click here.

Many AME students study courses which are not recognised resulting in useless diplomas or degrees. The University Grant Commission in consultation with Ministry of Civil Aviation has introduced a B.Sc (Hons) course in Aircraft Maintenance along with the model syllabus template available here. Institutes offering this course must keep in tune with this before applying for the recognition. 

How to become an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME)?

Candidates must undergo training and then apply for licenses starting with the basic followed by each level as required.