Air travel and air freight keep growing. Fleets are expanding. Aircraft are staying in service longer.
Behind every safe flight is a skilled technician making sure each system works as designed. For people who want a hands-on career tied to real-world demand, aviation maintenance continues to stand out as a potential pathway.
If you’re interested in working in this field, it's important that you understand current and future airframe and powerplant aviation technician job prospects to get the head start you need.
This guide breaks down what the hiring market looks like, what technicians earn, how certification works and how training at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) can help prepare you for the field.79
Growing Demand for Aviation Maintenance Technicians
Aviation maintenance technicians are in demand as airlines, cargo carriers and private operators expand their fleets and increase flight schedules. More planes in the air means more inspections, repairs and preventative maintenance on the ground. Demand is driven by passenger travel, commercial fleets and the need to maintain aging aircraft that remain in service longer than in previous decades.
What is an aviation maintenance technician?
An aviation maintenance technician inspects, maintains and repairs aircraft systems to ensure safe operation. Job duties include working on engines, landing gear, flight controls, electrical systems and structural components. Technicians follow strict safety standards and detailed procedures to keep aircraft airworthy.
Aviation Maintenance Career Outlook
For students considering training, employment outlook matters. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of aircraft and avionics mechanics and technicians is projected to grow about 5% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth reflects both industry expansion and workforce replacement.
The BLS estimates 11,000+ average annual aviation technician job openings in the U.S.65 Many of these openings come from retirements, as a large portion of today’s technicians reach the end of their careers.
Key Factors Driving Hiring and Industry Expansion
Several long-term forces continue to shape aviation maintenance hiring:
- Retirements across an aging technician workforce.
- Increased aircraft utilization after pandemic travel recovery.
- New aircraft technologies require specialized maintenance skills.
- Employer relationships with trade schools and training providers.
- Broader efforts to diversify and expand the technician pipeline.
As experienced technicians retire, employers are placing more value on technicians that prove their qualifications through structured, hands-on training programs.
Salary Trends and Compensation for Aviation Maintenance Professionals
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for aviation maintenance technicians in the United States was $78,680 in May 2024.57 This means half earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area. The median hourly wage was $38.05.
Typical salary ranges include:
- Entry-level technicians earning below the median as they gain experience.
- Experienced technicians earning above the median.
- Top earners in the highest 10% earning significantly more depending on role and region.
Supervisory and specialized positions often have higher aircraft mechanic salary potential.
Technological Advances Shaping the Aviation Maintenance Field
Modern aviation maintenance is increasingly data-driven. Digital systems now support many inspection and repair decisions.
Key developments include:
- Predictive maintenance using aircraft data to anticipate repairs.
- Advanced avionics systems requiring specialized troubleshooting.
- Maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) operations using digital records.
- Unmanned aerial vehicle systems expanding technical skill needs.
Predictive maintenance refers to using data and sensors to identify issues before failures occur. As aircraft systems evolve, technicians with updated training remain essential to safe operations.
Training, Certification and Skill Development Pathways
Most aviation maintenance careers require certification. The FAA Airframe and Powerplant credential allows technicians to work on aircraft structures, systems and engines.
What does FAA A&P certification allow?
It authorizes technicians to inspect, maintain and repair airframes and powerplants on certified aircraft in accordance with FAA regulations.
Training timelines vary. Earning FAA A&P certification typically takes between 18 months and four years depending on the training path and prior experience.
Training options include:
- Trade schools focused on hands-on aviation maintenance.
- Apprenticeships with employers.
- Employer-sponsored training programs.
At Universal Technical Institute, the Airframe & Powerplant training curriculum can take two years or less, taking place in hands-on labs designed to support certification readiness.79,128
Career Advancement Opportunities and Specializations
Aviation maintenance offers multiple advancement paths over time. As with any industry, over time, they may be able to advance in their aviation mechanic career with experience and hard work.77 Some entry-level and advanced roles could include:
- Aviation maintenance technician (entry-level).
- Aircraft mechanical installer (advanced).
- Helicopter mechanic (advanced).
- Avionics technician (advanced).
Some professionals move into management while others deepen technical expertise. Continued skill development and additional certifications often support advancement.
Industry Challenges and Workforce Shortages
The aviation industry faces real challenges, particularly workforce shortages. The average technician age is around 54, and about 40% of the workforce is over 60. Training pipelines have not fully replaced retiring workers.
While this creates pressure for employers, it also creates opportunity for new technicians. Shortages can translate into demand and potential for long-term stability for graduates entering the field today.
Future Outlook for Aviation Technician Careers
Demand for aviation mechanics is projected to continue in coming years. Airline expansion, fleet modernization and ongoing safety requirements continue to drive demand. Together, employment demand, evolving technology and workforce shortages support airframe and powerplant aviation technician job prospects for the next generation of technicians.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a shortage of aircraft maintenance technicians?
Yes. Many experienced technicians are retiring faster than new workers are entering the field, creating ongoing demand.
What salary can I expect after completing aviation maintenance training?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for aviation maintenance technicians in the United States was $78,680 in May 2024.57 This means half earned more and half earned less. Keep in mind that salary depends on several factors, including experience, employer, demand and cost of living in the area. Entry-level pay may start lower, with higher earnings possible as experience grows.
How long does it take to become certified?
Training for FAA Airframe & Powerplant certification typically takes 18 months to four years depending on the program and experience. At Universal Technical Institute, students can complete A&P training in two years or less.
Can I advance into management or specialized roles?
Yes. Experience and continued education can lead to supervisory, instructional or advanced technical positions.77
Ready to Explore Aviation Technician Training?
Aviation maintenance training can support your goals for a skilled, in-demand career with long-term growth potential. With hands-on instruction and industry-aligned coursework, students can build skills that support certification and career readiness.
To learn more about aviation technician training at Universal Technical Institute, connect with an Admissions Representative today at 1-800-834-7308 or click the button below.
Your next step toward an aviation maintenance career could start with a single conversation.1
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