Aircraft Equipment Mechanics and Technicians typically do the following:
• Diagnose mechanical or electrical problems
• Repair wings, brakes, electrical systems, and other aircraft components
• Replace defective parts, using hand tools or power tools
• Examine replacement aircraft parts for defects
• Read maintenance manuals to identify repair procedures
• Test aircraft parts with gauges and other diagnostic equipment
• Inspect completed work to ensure that it meets performance standards
• Keep records of maintenance and repair work
Airplanes require reliable parts and maintenance in order to fly safely. To keep an airplane in operating condition, Aircraft Equipment Mechanics and Technicians perform scheduled maintenance, make repairs, and complete inspections. They must follow detailed regulations set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that dictate maintenance schedules for different operations.
Many mechanics are generalists and work on many different types of aircraft, such as jets, piston-driven airplanes, and helicopters. Others specialize in one section, such as the engine, hydraulic system, or electrical system, of a particular type of aircraft. In independent repair shops, mechanics usually inspect and repair many types of aircraft.