What to expect from an Aircraft Repair and Maintenance career
Aircraft repair and maintenance positions are in high demand. From vintage airplanes to the most high-tech passenger jets, students in aircraft repair and maintenance programs at Ontario colleges get the knowledge they need to launch their career.
If you’re hands-on, detail-oriented and have a strong interest in airplanes that you can channel into a career, here’s what you need to know.
Aircraft Repair and Maintenance Courses
Courses in aircraft repair and maintenance programs provide students with the necessary knowledge and experience to work in a variety of aviation maintenance and inspection roles. Some of the topics courses will cover include (but aren’t limited to):
- Structural assembly
- Blueprint reading
- Procedures and regulations (safety, weather-related)
- Repairing, modifying and upgrading
- Mechanics and electrical components
Programs prepare students for different classifications of the Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) Licence issued by Transport Canada. In most programs, aircraft repair and maintenance courses can result in several months’ credit towards the AME Licence.
Field experience is also an important part of the curriculum in all aircraft repair and maintenance programs, giving students the opportunity to gain experience working with both static and flying aircraft.
General Aircraft Repair and Maintenance Program Requirements
Aircraft repair and maintenance programs at Ontario colleges require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, including a grade 12 English credit. A grade 12 math credit may be required, though individual requirements will vary by program. Most colleges also suggest courses that may help students better prepare for the program, but aren’t necessary for admittance.
Aircraft Repair and Maintenance Jobs and Salaries
Ontario college aircraft repair and maintenance programs prepare students to work for airlines, manufacturers, the military and other aerospace-related organizations.
Working an aircraft maintenance and repair job can be beneficial in obtaining an AME Licence, as a set number of working (apprentice) hours and specific maintenance tasks need to be completed to become accredited.
Salaries in this field can vary depending on your position and experience, however the average starting salary is in the low- to mid-$30,000 range. Gaining AME accreditation will lead to a higher salary.
Ontario Colleges Offering Aircraft Repair and Maintenance Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of aircraft repair and maintenance programs at Ontario colleges.
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