5 Things That Suck About Being An A&P Aircraft Mechanic.
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- Опубликовано: 25 апр 2023
- Here is my list of 5 things in the aviation industry that can suck as an A&P. I would like to preface this by saying I absolutely love my job. There have been tuff times, hard days, long hours, and immense pressure. However, being an aircraft mechanic has been incredibly rewarding and I have done so much in my life because of it. I still strongly recommend anyone who wants to go into aviation to go for it.
Video breakdown
0:44 1. Work Hours.
2:56 2. Weather.
4:35 3. Safety.
7:10 4. Lay Offs
8:51 5. Small world.
As always,
Be Easy. 
Авто/Мото
If you want to be an aircraft mechanic make sure to check out my videos on getting an A&P, Be, Easy.
People think aircraft mechanic is so glamorous but you work in cramped spaces, everything is sharp and delicate and hard to replace, it's maddening.
The hell hole is definitely a real thing.
@@brycebuildsit I do like scratch building experimental aircraft though, forming ribs and spars from nothing but flat sheets of aluminum, maybe one day I'll actually finish one of them.
Oh, don't get me wrong, I absolutely love my job. You are right though it's not all glamor.
What’s a good way to get started ?
The fastest way is to go to a part 147 school. They are between 12 months and 19 months. The ones based at community colleges like where I teach are much cheaper and the private institutions are more expensive
I’m at Delta. As a topped out AMT we are in the 60’s an hour. Which is 6 years. New hires can get Monday to Friday depending on what shop/department you are at. So 80 percent of guys are in the 6 figures period unless you are new. When you want to cross into the 200’s which is pretty common, that’s when you volunteer for the overtime. Working with JetBlue 2 years and Delta now 8 years, Delta all the way. The culture makes it a no brainer. Find an engine shop I recommend, or overhaul maintenance where top out is 60-80/hr , love your job and invest well.
That's great, where airport are you at.
@@brycebuildsit ATL
I just started school for my a&p is there any advice you can give me? I currently work for southwest on the ramp and I’m looking to transfer to the apprentice program as soon as I get the license
@Austin Roderick stick with it and don't be afraid to move place to place until you find somewhere that is a good fit.
@@austinroderick7967 if you can, I would continue on SOJT. That’s how I got my hours and I’m glad I did because GA maintenance and heavy jet maintenance are completely different worlds. The main similarity is they use tires to roll. Lol. By doing SOJT, I’ve gotten gotten a free education, been able to network and know what area I want to excel in, make my own hours of study, make great friendships, and more. Many people down here go to AIM and spend 50k for an education, to get a license…… to continue learning. So, skip the schooling and go straight to the SOJT and move up from there. It’s ALOT simpler than it seems. But all in all, as the other guy said, stick with it. Oh and you get your license in a SIMILAR amount of time.
I’m a 35 year avionics tech with a major airline…$62 ish an hour…HOWEVER, like you said, I work a lot of OT in a shop environment. I will clear over $300k this year I’m sure of it, but yes, what you said is largely true about many issues. Get off the line and into a shop when you have seniority if you can…work slow, thorough and safe!! You know a lot for a young dude.
I'm always trying to learn more. I have to be as a teacher of it, though. I love aviation and working as an aircraft mechanic. Thanks for watching.
Damn, 300k???? How many hours a week do you work and where are you located???
@@Afcknbum I average 72 hours a week, sometimes more. I don't see my home so much though.
@@havefunbesafewhich one more physically demanding? Avionics or aircraft mechanic?
@@TimTim__ definitely a line mechanic is more strenuous…, avionics is more tech oriented so you’re interfacing with electronics and not mechanicals.
As a retired A&P I miss being with those people and those beautiful birds everyday. You take the good with the bad yet you knew what you did day in and day out that it mattered. Tens of thousands of lives depend on your actions daily. What a great calling.
i never thought of it like that, makes me more enticed to get my a&p
I’m an AMT at a major airline in LAX .. As someone that’s worked for various companies.. This is easily the best job I’ve ever had .. Of course there’s some nights where it gets a little rough but I think they comes with any job .. Overall I have fun and is very rewarding
Working on airplanes is fun as hell !!! I don’t even look at my watch
If you find something that sucks you’re not in the right career! I been going at it for 33 yrs and still love it !
Im about to start school for my a&p licenses. I’ve been an automotive mechanic for some time now. The insight here is very helpful. Every industry has their own little quirks.
I love being an A&P. One of the most rewarding job's out there
Ditto. oct 16 th.
I understand every company is different, but how would you describe the time crunches for a&p's? I work for Firestone and one of the biggest stresses, especially for new techs, is the rush and getting things done quickly even if it sacrifices quality. Also, are a&p's paid hourly/salary or per flag hour/job? That also adds stress to automotive techs. Thanks@@brycebuildsit
Aircraft Mechanics are paid hourly. The time crunch usually happens when the aircraft is behind schedule, so they start asking people to volunteer/voluntold to work some OT. There are also lots of places that just work a straight 40 every week, and the aircraft or component there of will be done when it's done. Having done a bit of both the job stress from automotive tends to be more money based wiel aircraft is more quality of work and safety based. I realize it's a long reply. For some reason, the youtube overloards flagged your comment, so I had to manually approve it just now.
haha the youtube overlords. Thank you for the reply. Again, your insight is very helpful.@@brycebuildsit
Something to consider when working for one of the major airlines is seniority. After 3 to 5 years you are pretty much locked to that carrier, you can't jump ship and move to another airline without completely starting over and seniority means everything from station and shift assignments to vacation bids, days off, boarding priority for travel and pay scale progression. The 'B-scale' pay nowadays is ridiculous, it can take up to 5 years just to get fully vetted. The travel benefits are nothing like they used to be when there was an actual first class. Business class is always filled with upgrades and standby almost always means a middle seat in economy but if you want to travel well, it is free so you got that. I did 33 years with United as an R&E avionics on the line. Took the early out offer during covid and now restoring my '46 Luscombe 8E with a '46 Swift GC-1B project on the back burner. No regrets about anything.
Thank you for your insight. Good luck with that, Luscomb those are nice little planes.
Thank you so much for service
Hey man, so they always talk about dangerous chemicals and all that, how are you doin health wise did you use PPEs at all?
I’m about to start school to be an A&P. Your story sounds exactly like how I want my life to go. Thanks for the inspiration.
What benefit did UA offer for the early out to sweeten the deal?
I was in the military United States Coast Guard helicopter rescue for 23 years. This is a whole nother story. Put your right on the mark on this one. It's definitely not an easy career to deal with. Thank You for putting this video out for young men and women that want to get into Aviation.
Great video with some good insights. I relocated from NYC (after years of being a property manager) to Texas during the height of Covid Jun/2021(and the mass exodus of city residents), with the ambitions of enrolling in a part 147 school, which I successful did. As of 10/19/23 I have completed part 147 schooling with an associates and already passed all 3 written exams (general, airframe & powerplant) on my 1st attempt. Now gearing up to take my O&P’s in the San Antonio area before securing a job with a local MRO. It was very rigorous and often times very intimidating for me, being that I never worked around airplanes before (especially out at hangars in the harsh Texas summers). But with faith & sincere focus I completed the goal of recalibrating my life in a completely different direction. Thanks again for the video
about to start school for my a&p, thank you for the heads up, very informative!
20 year A&P here. A very accurate video. I left aviation the end of 2001, and not much seems to have changed, for good or ill.
Coming from small industry, I agree with your sentiments. Insightful video!
Nice job with the details. Spot on about don’t burn bridges. Aircraft mechanics are such a different breed and a brotherhood. It is very hard work. One thing maybe you have stressed as well is just how important the paperwork is…. I. Aviation Mx you might turn wrenches for 15 minutes but the paperwork and ensuring the S/N’s, P/N’s AMM/IPC/SRM reference are perfect!!
Correct to say the job is in any kind of wx and physical demanding.
But it’s rewarding and I did it for 47 years..
Thank you so much for the information. Being a single dude with no kids, Coming from the Marines, and after listening to all the cons, it doesn’t sounds bad at all specially because I’m very mechanically inclined and I would definitely love this job! Can’t wait to get started next year!
Right now is a great time to become a mechanic because of the shortage and pretty much all the majors have raised their pay. I work 3/12s and love it.
You're not kidding some of the hiring bonuses are north of 20k and they are hiring newbies for 1st shift at non major hubs.
Spot on!
I’m a retired USAF aircraft maintainer. Specifically, my primary specialty was aircraft hydraulics specialists. But, also performed Crew Chief tasks as well on C-141, C-5s, C-17s, HH-60(G) helos, and C-130Js.
I never wrenched on the c 17 or the c 130. But I jumped out of them 😂
I’m crew chief on the 16 and this guy is complaining about everything we do in the military with no extra pay😂 I have pulled 60Hr weeks, and weekend duty with no extra pay. Can’t wait to work in civilian side.
A good friend of mine is a retired F-16 crew chief. I was insulted when he told me what they paid him for the work he did. My hat is off to you, thank you for your service.
I have been around aviation for 37 years. This advice is 100%.
Where were you when I was in school. Excellent advice !. Just got my A&P on April 17. Been with big airline for 27 years,
Congratulations!
Good video, those considering an A&P license should watch this.
Thank you for watching, I also did a video on great things about being an A&P as well.
wow, thank you for this video. This definitely seems like a career i will continue to consider.
I did another video on things I love as well. Truthfully there have been hard days but I have always loved being a Aircraft Mechanic.
@@brycebuildsit I will give that video a watch, thank you for putting out your opinions and information about A&P.
You are obsoletely right. I worked for United for 28 years. I didn't deal with the sun because I only had 28 years seniority. I was on Mids. I really loved the work. And by the way I have been married for over 40 years. Not much traveling though. Had to work a weird schedule. Now that I am retired, I can travel more, but there no more first class. Really miss it.
How did you get into United? Did you go to school before you started
you always have to go to school before being an A&P@@tannerfpv2092
I had a uncle that worked for TWA when they were around he was an inspector. I had another uncle that worked for TWA with airplane parts. His best paying job was working in Saudi Arabia for Saudi’s airlines.
I’m a united storekeeper but going to school for A&P while going to work next year, Love working for United.
Great lil video... Spot on!!! I've worked back-shop in the USAF, C-Check Maintenance for an airline, Line Maintenance later for same airline, had to leave due to a bankruptcy of said airline, went to a 3rd party (contract) C-Check maintenance facility (which sucked, sweatshop), became an avionics instructor for an A&P school, and am now back as a Technical Services Rep for said airline I had left from 12 years ago. When I was instructing, 5 years, I kept it 100% with my students when it came to talking about the industry. I didn't sugar coat it. How seniority works, what to expect for shift work, what to expect in task assignment as the FNG, the environment they be working in.
I also made it a point to let them know about aviation world being a very small world. On day one, introduction day in my class, I told them about my background so they knew I was BS'ing about be in the industry, I always told them, " There's someone who knows someone who knows YOU and your reputation precedes you. It started the day you stepped foot in this school...". I actually had this scenario play out dunning one of my classes. I got a phone call from one of my old avionics managers. He asked me if I knew about a particular student. I said that I knew of the student, but that student did not go through my class for avionics, but I can talk to the instructors that had the student. He kindly said thank you. I went and talked to one of the most respected A&P instructors and asked about the student' His reply was "Do you have somebody else in mind?!" That's all that needed to be said... I reported back to my buddy and recited those exact words and he replied, "That's all I need to know, thank you for the info."..... I told my class right after that phone call of what just happened... That class got to see it first hand...
When it comes to the chemicals you speak of, I have to say, throughout my career, MEK has been mostly removed from use., at least with the airlines. We used to use it when I started my career in the mid 90's. I now we can no longer order MEK. In my 30+ years in aviation, Mil and Civil, I've never used the other stuff you mentioned, well, because I never worked de-ice boots...lol... I have however, used MASTINOX D40... That stuff is nasty and gets all over the place... Kinda like when a Mech across the hangar opens up the anti-seize and somehow gets all over you at 100 ft away..lol
As far as being dangerous.... I can be if you do not follow safety procedures.. YOU ARE 100% correct about LOCK OUT TAG OUT!!! If there's anything I have learned in this career is... COMPLACENCY KILLS!!! ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS keep you head on a swivel and pay attention to you surroundings...ALWAYS!!!! If you see something that's UNSAFE, just STOP whatever it is you are doing and refuse to continue until the safety issue has been resolved... That goes with an UNAIRWORTHY AIRCRAFT TOO!!! Do not be afraid to ground an aircraft if you find something to be a SAFETY OF FLIGHT ISSUE!!! All it take is your pen and an entry in the aircraft logbook...
Could you go more in depth in terms of hours, shifts and what to expect please?
@@Superb_212 Shift hours can be anything... I used to be that new guys would start in a station that wasn't in the best place and be on graveyards, maybe 10pm - 8 am (10 hour shift 3 day weekends), 7 pm -7 am (12 hour shift, 4 days on, 3 days off, 3 days on 4 days off).... Now a days.... as short staffed all the carriers are, who knows!!!! I have students with less than a year & half that are working for United, in Orlando, on dayshift.... that was unheard of pre covid....
Ok, Thank you for the response. I'm looking at getting into the industry so anything helps.
@@Flyby-1000 at Delta we have kids on swings T/F or S/M off….Mids FSS off….back in the day, under 20 years you were on the yard TWT off…unreal how things have changed!
@@justing42 Right!!! These new mechs have no idea how lucky they are... not just decent shift hours....but to even get an interview by a legacy as a newbie... let alone an actual job offer...
You gave an excellent description of working in the aircraft industry. I was a design engineer usually working long and hard on design of a new aircraft B727 B737 Chinook Helicopter etc and same applies good pay long hours know every body and lay off if contract finished or changed . Moved to various companies so moving family . Worked a a Civilian Engineer for Airforce and when they move you go or be layed off. So luckily got to work for Government as Certification Engineer. Not payed as much but steady employment and pension so retired now . By and at large tho I enjoyed my working life and worked until I was 80. Make a lot of good friends but ya gotta be flexible!
Im really glad i just happened to get really lucky with my job. Got a job fresh out of school for 35/hr on days as an A&P mechanic working in an engine shop. Sure it gets repetitive but for the most part im out of the weather and not having to break my back doing 100+ things like line mechanics do. Sure im a little sad i dont get to see everything on the planes but after hearing so many line people wish they were in the hangar or shop im glad i got the position im in.
Thanks for this video man! Have been looking into getting my A&P lately and this video was kind of a relief to be honest. I have been a commercial fisherman for about a decade now and seems like we have a lot of the same, long time away, closed seasons, gnarly chemicals for haul out work still stuck in the 40's. But nice to know it's an environment a guy is already kinda used to. 👍
I will say this, I absolutely love being an Aircraft Mechanic.
28 years in aviation as an AMT, Lead AMT. and Manager. Have spent my career at LAX working for a major cargo carrier. Long hours, odd days off, working weekends and holidays, and overtime.
Any regrets? I'm 31 and a community College 5 minutes from me has tge A&P certification courses and I'm thinking of either that or HVAC for heat & air & refrigeration
No regrets!! It's been a great career for a great company..@@taylorburke5388
No regrets if you like fixing things...I love it
Love your vids man! I'm going GA and planning on running my own truck eventually mainly because of the schedule.
I went GA obviously, i don't make near as much money as you can with airlines but I've got to do allot more with my career. I run a side business off the tailgate of my truck and honestly the hardest part is getting your first 10 clients after that it will grow by word of mouth.
@@brycebuildsit I'm in Vegas and about to join a&p school. coming from auto / side-by-side mechanic . I mainly work on BMW"S I'm 47 hope it's not too late. I hope to do this for a long time.
It's never to late, my dad actually used to own and run a power-sports business when I was a kid. This would have been late 90's and we remember when the kawasaki mule first came out and we thought this is never going to catch on lol. Obviously we were wrong. I'll say this GA doesn't pay great unless you are working for yourself. Commercial aviation pays 30 and up an hour most guys top out a 60 with experience
@@brycebuildsit hey thanks for the quick response! My buddy is definitely going to steer me the right way. Super grateful I have him as a resource. Gonna watch all your videos now ! I haven’t looked through your catalog but you should do a favorite tool video they don’t have to be expensive. Just be perfect for the job.. the weirder the better lol
My first day of A&P school is tomorrow and this was very helpful.
Good luck, I will add I have loved my career and greatly enjoy being an aircraft mechanic. School is going to be hard but worth it in the end.
How has it been since the 7 months you started school Cory? Interested in getting into the field myself.
I almost took took an aviation job . I was an avionics technician on P-3s and after I got out I worked at P&WA assembling JT8s and JT9s in the late 70s. I moved to Alaska and was looking for a job and a helicopter company wanted to hire me but right before they called I’m took an electronics job in the oil field. I retired from a large communications company. My jobs involved flying all over Alaska in many different kinds of planes and helicopters. I also got to work on an FAA contract sometime working in ZAN. I feel I got the best of both worlds. Oh I even bought and learned to fly a 7ECA Champ.
Nice, avionics shop. Looks like the resistor color code poster, and ohms law poster. I worked at YX Rp and f9 form 08 to 2016. Then OO for a few years did not like it there. Got into control engineering now and has been good. I miss working for airline sometimes it was fun non revving everywhere with the family. Sometimes could not go because of a AOG and had to stay on my days off.
Thank you I'm actually in our electricity training room at the school that's why you'll see so many training aids in the background
I'm an AME ( Aircraft Maintenance Engineer- that's what we're called here in Canada ) and everything this guy has said about being an Aircraft Mechanic is very accurate. The same working conditions exist here in Canada, the heat, the cold, rain, layoffs, the money hasn't quite caught up to what guys in the US are making though. The other bad thing about layoffs in Canada is there isn't a great number of other employers to turn to when the economy goes downhill.
Well as far as working as an A&P Tech. I loved it. The problem I had in the industry over tbe last 26 yrs befor retired. Was the Cutbacks, Mergers, Foreclosers, and Layoffs. Other than that loved it.
I’ve been in the aviation maintenance industry for 23 years now. As an aircraft technician I finally landed a job for a major airline. I’ve worked for many small companies in the past either direct or as a Contractor. As of 2022 or post pandemic era the airlines have been booming like never before. Honestly, I can say now is a good time to work for a major airline. I currently work for United airlines and would recommended to any one that just got their a&p or is thinking about becoming an aircraft technician. The salaries and the benefits will never match small corporate jet outfits. I recommend starting in whatever station is hiring and after the 1st year you can transfer, they’ll even pay for
Your move to your preferred station. Recommend going to the hubs, ie houston, Dulles, Newark, Chicago, Denver, LA (other cities would only have line mx work) in Hub station you will find better opportunities for overtime work or flexible schedules. And lastly I gotta say nothing beats been able to travel the world for cheap or (free in the US), you, your family and friends.
very good video man
Thank you
My boy Mr Lynch!!! It's Aaron from your class 2019-2021
I knew that I soon as I read you name, welcome to my tube
Well from deployments in the army to multiple times in the field I’ll be alright lol. I’m in army aviation and work many hours throughout the week. Can’t wait to get my a&p before I get out.
I wouldn't trade what I do for a living. I absolutely love being a A&P mechanic.
9 months with United and I was lucky to be working in Composite shop. I work Mon-Friday 8hrs shift, 5:30-2pm and holidays off. Overtime is not mandatory so its optional. New hire start 36 and top out 61 with new contract to begin in 2024. I need money 😂 and do overtime and make 12k-15k in a month and that goes a long way for me.
That's pretty good and in line with what some of my students are getting. I did another video on things that I love about being an A&P and I believe pay was one of them
Where do you work bro? I’m just about to get out the army and go into school for my A&P license. Are you guys still hiring ?
This excites me, I'm starting my A&P next month, I'm 18, and looking forward to being a mechanic. What state do you live in and do they always give you overtime if you ask for it?
My son is attending Liberty University A&P program and I would love for him to get in to a position like yours. Can you tell me where you work and how did you get the job?
MEK works great!!!! Don't forget were also constantly exposed to oil, hydraulic fluid, JP8 showers, liquid oxygen etc. Most mechanics that work 4 years on the b1 bomber have tinnitus by the time they move on. Keep the videos coming! Thank you
MEK is awesome! Just wear your PPE lolol
When we did AB trim on the F-4's you could literally feel your brain rattling around in your skull when you were under those J-79's. FLY NAVY!!!
I’m 38yr A&P, still working. We use to keep gallon cans of MEK at the wash station. Literally washed arms and hands with it all day every day. It takes paint, sealant, grease , anything off ! Then they say yea don’t use that …..
Spent 26 years flying the C-130 in the USAF. All that you say is true of our military maintainers and much, much more. My utmost respect to all of you that keep the aircraft and us safe.
I would like to add that I ABSOLUTELY LOVE ❤️ MY JOB. I would never go back to construction or farming or trade a day of work on aircraft for anything else. This video is all in good fun and just ment to highlight some difficult parts of aircraft maintenance.
I retired a few years ago after 40 years. A&P, IA. Worked in general aviation up through light jets. In Texas. Loved every day of it. Yeah, some days were better than others but overall it was great. Mostly fantastic people. People that actually cared about their jobs and quality. Standing on the run pad tweaking an engine in the heat, or cold, was not fun. But then the days when it was sunny and 68 degrees with no wind......revel in it. I'd do it all over again if I could.
I have been in that lay-off situation. My company lost a contract with the Navy. A few months later 630 A&P were laid off.
Had a hiccup in my life right after I graduated from school. My license has been pending for a couple years now. I finally have the motivation to get my ass back into studying habits and get in this industry!
I wish you godspeed and the best of luck. Go get that 🍞
Worked as an A&P at a regional airline for 6 years. Regional is a good way to get started, but it’s not a great long-term career. I wasn’t willing to relocate to a larger city to work for a major airline so I left aviation entirely. Looking back, I’m still extremely glad I did it! I’m in a different field of maintenance now, but starting my career in aviation boosted my resume and instilled a meticulous safety mindset in my work. Pretty much any maintenance work (industrial, heavy duty, automotive, diesel, etc…) has similar pros/cons honestly
Well it seems that I started this off and I always worked in Design with Design and Manufacturing companies altho the comments I made were on the Airline Maintenance guys work and Comments. Great to see the Maintenance guys doing so well. Design an
Well it seems I started this off but I worked with Design and Manufacturing companies but great to see the Maintenance with the Airline Companies was doing so well. I had similar problems also and on the B727 and B737 which was in competition with the DC9 was severe as they already had the DC9 in production. We worked 6 days and 2 nights per week. Some times Sunday and pay was very good.. Thorough Engineering and Safe Design was required and we had to meet the design Requirements of FAR25. I’m retired now and things seemed to have changed with Profit first and Safety last.
I was extraordinarily fortunate to land a job at a ga facility right out of amp school. I am one of three people with one of those people being the owner. I basically work Monday through Friday 40 hours a week but being a small shop, it's very friendly and personable when it comes to needing time for a doctor's appointment or something like that. I'm not making huge amounts of money but I think that is offset by a fantastic work environment. I don't think I could ever bring myself to go over one of the major airlines or assembly plants but this shop that I work at is certainly a phenomenal place to work. Sometimes I question my career choices because of how Piper designs some of their airplanes. Trying to work on an airplane that was built in 1959 with dozens of ads and inspections going on certainly makes things very challenging but I also find it very rewarding. It's not always Doom and Gloom but I do understand the negative aspects of working in a major corporate environment
I also worked GA right out of school. I'm an IA now and have my own business when I'm not teaching at the 147 school.
My first job was very similar we were all tight knit everyone helped everyone, but as the years went on one of the owners became more focused on money then his employees. But I made lifelong friends, GA is just different I know just about every IA in the San Antonio area and where most people work. the sense of community is unmatched
I was in Aviation for 30 years. Never have I experienced a career field where the quality of jobs can vary so drastically. I've worked at places that I loved and other places that I despised. You didn't mention the contract heavy maintenance jobs, doing C and D checks on varying customer aircraft. These places, for reasons I still do not understand, treat their employees like total shit. They have rusty old stands and garbage equipment. And these places are where most newbies will end up. I could not in good faith recommend anyone to go into this field. Govt. or military jobs are okay, civilian aviation, outside of the majors, where there are still downsides, pretty much blows. All the reasons you mentioned plus the expense of tools, its just not a great job. The few days where you watch a plane take off on time as you expertly troubleshoot and fixed it in a timely manner, are extremely rewarding, but the downsides are just to many.
Repair stations suck
I currently have a job that my degree earned me, but I’m quickly learning about all the bureaucracy that school didn’t fill me in on, and it’s quickly turned me off.
That being said I’m thinking of going to tech school for a job at Tinker AFB, given my love of military aviation - do you have any experience working there?
I might be going in to either aviation for the A&P certification or go for HVAC that's for air conditioning, heat and refrigeration. Any advice for anyone who obtains their A&P and how to find a great job in aviation maintenance over a bad one? Like what to look for to avoid a bad position somewhere
I'd definitely do aviation over HVAC. My dad works for an HVAC company, not the most enjoyable work. Once you start school, the word gets around quickly. What places are good for building experience and which are good for a career. Most of the major airlines are pretty good, as is standard aero, and boeing
Iam not in any of those fields but my understanding once you have experience in hvac and work for your self you can do very well go on you tube find somebody that is doing hvac pros and cons on both careers.
Man I needed to watch the video because I qualify to be aircraft engine mechanics for the navy
Going on 40 years....love the work....even on bad days it is easy money
Man that 4-10 schedule is a dream for me coming from the auto industry. Working 50 hour weeks and barely any breaks, not to mention you get paid flat rate so you more than likely wont get paid for all the hours you are working in the shop. Man once I get my degree, im going straight here no hesitation.
I love that for you. Aircraft mechanics definitely earn more than auto and have 10x more benefits. If you happen to choose airlines you can fly all over the world on flight benefits. Not to be that guy but 80% of my channel is about becoming an A&P. I've done many videos on the school process, testing and more
love the shirt and vid
Ive worked at SWA for almost 30 years currently an inspector and right at $70 and hour strait time. OT is always offered at 1 1/2 & 2 pay. Top out pay after 5 years of working for a mechanic is $130K. But one major down side working at a major is seniority. It accounts for everything. So plan on working graveyard shift and weekends. As for me working OT and picking up shifts and giving away a lot of my normal shifts. I work 3 days a week and last year i made $280K. I love my job and would not change anything.
I work in the technical office so I do work 40 hours a week but I work every other saturday and some overtime if needed so I guess that makes it 45h a week
still sounds something i really want to do.. the cons dont sound bad coming when i am coming from doing 24 hour shifts with mandatory overtimes…AMT sounds like such a cool job to me
It's an awesome career and I couldn't see myself doing anything else. I should have done a better job of explaining that before I started the video.
At my MRO we switched to using MPK. It has a higher flashpoint making it mildly safer.
You have experienced nothing in life until you’ve been sent out to change a Boeing 727 apu load control valve. Or a foot air cable on any classic Boeing aircraft up to including the 737 max.i have worked on a lot of different heavy commercial aircraft in my day from Lockheed Airbus Boeing Fokker Douglas. I wish that the 757 was still in production that is my favorite aircraft by far.
I went to an A&P school in UTICA, NY in 1973. Received my AI 4 years later after buying $300, 3 foot stack of paper from government printing office. I was in an area were at the time AI were in short supply. At an AI renewal meeting they talked down AI's that moonlighted at small airports. They were after a guy that signed off a 150. During a per-purchase inspection they found a crack in the rudder balance weight rib. The 150 had 3 hours since annual. The 150 was tied down with on rudder lock. During a storm the winds flipped a Piper 140 that was tied down next to 150. After the meeting the FAA asked me to sign off annuals at a local airport. I had gotten out of aviation after 7 years. My first 6 years was in GA. MY last year was with a commuter airline. Shop was heated in the summer and air conditioned in the winter. The ice from the airplane being washed would be gone by morning. MEK was used for nozzle cleaning and primer thinner for surface balance.
My wife hated the way I smelled when I came home. The first years I smelled of a carb cleaner that stripped a engine case clean in 5 minutes. The last year I smelled of jet fuel. I came home after painting and pulled a 3 inch string out of me nose. On the good side my pilots license cost me $2 and I flew all kids of airplanes.
Just sayin’ hi… Went to Riverside in ‘77/8, and while there worked the ramp for Empire. Such a long time ago!
40 years in the trade. It's better than digging a ditch. It is a job and has good things and crappy things. Welcome to the real world.
I spent my Airline career in
Hangar and Support Shops doing Heavy Maintenance and Component Overhaul.
The A & P is exposed to All types of health hazards and chemical exposures in Aircraft Overhaul work
Even line mechanics are breathing APU and Engine Exhaust Fumes on the Ramps especially at Major Hubs.
My 2 cents. 45yrs total, 36@United SFO. Currently Retired. Some will have a hard go of this line of work, such as working mid nights, lay offs, getting bounced around the system and just not being suited to apply themselves to the demands of the job. Then there others like my self. Worked the line (outdoors much of the time) and loved every bit of it. Of course let me explain. I hired on at the beginning of a large hiring spree in the mid 80’s which meant I moved up in seniority quickly. I never worked midnights, I was never laid off. Near the end I worked 32hrs a week and made a 100k per year. So how is it to work for a major Airline? Just depends who you ask, as for me it was a fantastic career!
We're often underpaid for the liability we hold. I'm a helicopter mechanic, even more so on these machines there is things that you simply can't mess up on. When you do people die.
I'd agree with that, helicopters and GA. There is no management above you. It's all on you
That's what scares me about going into this field.
Did you learn that in the military?
@@mr.stealyogirl1307 honestly same, people say you work 18 hours somedays and that terrifies me. Not because I have to work 18 hours but, I have to stay attentive all seconds of those 18 hours. Slip up once and that's your ass.
Absolutely right, we fuck up and it results in smoking holes in the ground with dead people in them...
When it comes to aviation we get the short end of the stick it's only Us in the pilots to keep these planes flying but yet the pilots get to take their hours with them wherever they go in the airlines if we choose to move airlines we start over at the bottom even if you have 15 years experience at another airline
Dont know if you still look at this but United is starting their Calibrate program that bring in people and have you shadow one of their mechanics for 30 months. Since I cant go to school cause of my work/financial needs, this might be my way in and I am highly considering it. I think its time for a change of pace and a career change. I want to get my pilots license and well this would be a way in for that as well.
I know united needs mechs it's nice to see them taking steps to get them instead of just waiting on graduates from school
@@brycebuildsit Yeah right now its in house recruiting but I have signed up with their notification system to know when they open it to the outside.
From what I understand they just released the program in 2023. So its a great time to do it if I am going too.
8hr day 6-2 rotation sucked on graveyard was evil.Thank gawd for the 10 hr day 5-3 rotation!
Been there, done that in my 23 years as an avionics tech. Upside down, under the panel of a King Air on the ramp when it's 108* is no fun. Do, I got a teaching credential and after 17 years, I'm making over $100K for 185 working days. Air conditioned and heated classroom every day, all day. I wouldn't trade my GA days for anything.
Topped out AMT @ Delta gets roughly 130k a year with no overtime. OT is readily available if you want it So getting 6 figures is not hard at all lol. I work line at Hartsfield and love it. Work is busy but not breaking your back busy like how it would be at a smaller MRO facility. Overall if you want better working conditions and pay go to an airline or fedex/ups. Most A&Ps start off at a small place where the work environment is bad and you do a lot of sketchy stuff, once you do your time there and get picked up by a major it gets a lot easier.
For those looking to get into the field, he’s not trying to scare you just letting you know what you can face. I’ve been through layoffs, Boeing shut down and COVID. However there’s always jobs available somewhere. May not be the job you want but it’s something to put money in your pocket. Aviation can be a rewarding job and it’s the one career I haven’t felt dread when I leave for work.
Also to note when working for the majors. There are more people than you realize that commute out of state. I work for United out of DEN but live in GA. At the time the clock was running short for me and that was the only station I could get at the moment. I’m flying out every week to be home with my family. Be mindful of having to relocate or commute with this job.
One thing I would add or put more emphasis on is the stress factor. Always trying to be as perfect as possible can really start to eat away at you. Though I still love the work, having over 14 years of experience in aviation maintenance the negatives outweigh the positives in my case. Aviation and I are currently divorced and it would take a lot to get me back. I recently entertained going back and interviewed against an internal hire which for me was another sign to look elsewhere for opportunities.
The stress is no joke, and some places are better then others. Part of the issue is that all of the liability is put on the mechanics no matter how large the company.
I was looking into aviation mechanics but I have been hearing a lot of bad and good things about it. People say to not do it. Others say that this is very rewarding
I absolutely love being an aircraft mechanic, great pay, and great benefits, and the job is enjoyable. Can't ask for more than that. If you want to do it I say go for it.
What do YOU want to do?
I got my A & P recently and got hired at a local MRO in my area....even they upped their pay, benefits, and bonuses. It really is a good time to get in , and plus , really this is a plus, this is something you can be proud to do as a career. So far, its never a dull moment , even in the down times here and there. Theres always something you can learn new and keep yourself occupied with thatll make you a better mechanic. I plan on getting a broker license too and buy my own planes and flip some of them on the side as a hobby. All in all, this is fun as hell and Im glad I decided to do this, but its not for everyone, just like if you find you are better at acting, or being a doctor, or a gunsmith, then do that. the point is , it shouldnt feel like a job where youre constantly looking at a clock wanting it to be punch out time, thats not how a career should be. Do your thing and strive to be great at it.
Its not really a small community its just alot of mechanics are constantly moving on to many different companies. So its essentially a shuffle of people that create a network.
Some of the many negatives you mention are true, some! If your are bothered by the negatives a the majors it's not for you , find a nice office job that pays peanuts. I worked with the negatives you mentioned and thankfully I had a great 39 year career and I am married for 54 years. We did use MEK a lot, it was a great cleaner but we stopped using it in the mid 1970's as I recall. Not too many boots on modern jet aircraft.
My reality. Grew up in GA and also spent some time in AG Aviation doing ground OPS / Maintenance . Loved both jobs but the wages and benefits for a young married man with a family do not measure up to the Airlines. Left GA and spent about 38 years as an AMT with a Major Airline. Do not regret my career path. The major Airlines presently pay a top wage scale A & P mechanic just under $60.00 / HR with matching 401k and health care plans. Non Revenue Travel all over the world at your fingertips.
How many GA A & P jobs provide this type of compensation?
GA just cannot or will not compete with the major airlines.
This is the real world reality.
I think it's more can not. Even freelance, it's hard to clear 80k a year or higher GA. Once you get a hanger, things just get very expensive to stay in business.
As a mechanic that works at Standard Aero. We are routinely on over time which is a minimum of 50 hours a week. The money is better than what he described at standard aero also. Many people clear a six figure yearly.
Very similar to the cons of working as a wind Turbine technician, it’s dangerous, you have to endure the heat and the cold, and good luck trying to have a relationship while traveling 10 months for work 😂.
But wind turbine technician sounds so cool.
Is that what you do? I'm getting out of the military and considering both of these careers! Just sounds like Aviation Maintenance pays better without having to travel.
Thanks for the video man. I’m in canada, I’ve taken aerospace manufacturing however my dream is to become a certified AME, I’m 29 years old and working in different fields, do you think is too late for me to get into the aviation maintenance industry? I already have knowledge on basic things about maintenance because of the manufacturing college degree that I took.
Thanks for the advise and keep up the good work.
Never too late, one of my good friends started at 38
Lol. My team doesn't use lock out and tag out procedures.
It's the oddest thing that I've seen. This is my first a and p job and I've always used lock out and tag out in my other jobs, but the most dangerous one, our team doesn't use them lol
That's wild.
I got my A&P from NAA in Tampa 15 months ago. I got hired directly to Boeing Flightline and they have treated me very well. Coming out of school and working on 120+ million dollar airplanes was a shock, but in the past 15 months I've learned so much its ridiculous. I came to learn as much about 737's as possible before making a jump to a major carrier whos fleet is 737's only. One thing I've noticed is peoples inability to diagnose/troubleshoot issues, its typically remove and replace. For example, If there is an avionics related issue at my work, they call out a avionics specific team so i don't get much experience with it. I would like to understand more about wiring diagrams, relays, switches...etc. Any recommendations on how to achieve that? I think a proper aviation mechanic should be able to think outside the box to find these issues, especially working line maintenance with the majors. I get a lot of feedback from people saying follow the AMM or the FIM and you will be fine. But when your out on the line by yourself and that plane is leaving in 4-7 hours with a funky issue you cant quite get, I would feel like a failure for not solving the problem.
I graduated from NAA in 1998 and went to work for United Airlines in San Francisco as an R&E (radio and electronics) mechanic doing “C” checks.
I guess I'm pretty blessed with the job I have. I work for Avionics Solutions. It's on call line service and we get payed by the day, not hourly. The most of the time I'm just working on projects around the house. I get payed as if I was working 80hrs but don't even reach 20hrs a week. It's sick.
I'd you don't mind me asking what shop do you work for.
@brycebuildsit I work at ECP. But we have services at VPS and PNS also. The main hub is based at LFT. We do not have a shop since we are a outbound station here at ECP. Usually if parts are needed, MOC will ship them down. Company is called Avionic Solutions
This is the worst exaggeration of a aircraft mechanic job. Especially for commercial airlines.
...You are correct, but you barely touched on so many more reasons not to be an A&P. This will barely touch on those. I had 2 years in GA, 23 years in the majors, and then finally 15 with a corporate jet MRO barely making 26/hr in the end (but at least I got most weekends off). The airlines were all about working nights, weekends, and holidays. Sometimes I would "FAR out" with only one day off a month. Pay was based on seniority and not much else. I was run/taxi qualified on all Boeings 737 to 777, Airbus, Douglas and more, with lots of specialty training, all for no extra money. In 20 years I couldn't hold any shift other than graveyard, and I too was a victim of layoffs. Later when I quit the airlines and was at the corporate facility, much of my time was in training or fixing mistakes of newer mechanics that in many cases made the same or much more than me. Age discrimination was prevalent even with my experience, high standards and efficiency. Going corporate was still a better move as the shift work and other airline downsides were killing me. The corporate MRO organizational and maintenance standards didn't come close to those of the airlines. I absolutely regret my 40 years as an A&P. You can never get back the things you missed, including relationships.
Done with my general and airframe ,I’m in powerplant now ,studying for o &p,no offense to anybody but I was born and raised in Jamaica ,I can work under any pressure and anybody ,I just hope I find a good job with benefits after school
I didn't do a great job prefaceing this video, I absolutely love what I do and fond the job incredibly rewarding. There are tuff elements but that's what makes it fun
A top wage scale AMT A & P at a major airline earns about $60.00 / HR Straight time 40 HRS / WK. Overtime is 1.5 or 2.0 X
Add Matching 401k and Healthcare + Non Revenue Travel .
Every job has pros and cons ,I’m a cashier right now ,job is chill ,I’m on RUclips all day ,the thing is it’s 12:50 an hour with no benefits ,you call in sick you can be fired ,so sick or vacation days ,and if you take a week off ,you get no pay .think about life bro ,nothing is easy and laid back 100 %
Aircargo airlines pay way higher than passenger airlines. FedEx top pay is 68.00an hour. This is their new contract.
@@erikhaack4123 it's been that way for several Decades.
Everybody keeps leap frogging when they get a new contract.
At one time UPS was the highest paid A & Ps in the Industry. Airlines have traditionally always been $4 - $5 / HR less than major freight haulers.
Major Airlines still attract people because they usually have very good Non Revenue Travel benefits.
I'm aware that Freight Haulers also make Interline agreements with Airlines for standby travel but usually at a lower standby classification than the Airline employees.
Forgot to mention night shift… that’s the majority of the jobs.
Also…. When I was on jets we never moved any flight control or did gear swings without people in that area watching it and on a radio telling the cockpit that it’s clear. If you work for a company were you going to get a wrench gets you killed by a gear swing…. Then you need to find a new job.
Also should mention that that good money does not last forever…. Body can’t take it long term… don’t see many guys in their 50’s turning wrenches and running around on the ramp.
I worked for United for 7 years and let me tell you... To live in a nice neighborhood with a nice house most of the people at United still live paycheck to paycheck because of the work rules and how much medical insurance cost and not to mention they cut out profit sharing... To get ahead you pretty much have to live at work on overtime and double time.... Not to mention if you're single with no house like me Uncle Sam takes about 60% of that money you make
So get a house brother!
yeeee doggiey you hit almost every point der! I almost spit my coffee when you mentioned aids! xD
i work for a major airline i will say if you want to work at the majors where you make the better money YOU WILL be on nights working weekends this industry is soley based on senority so people over look this fact but you WILL BE WORKING NIGHTS AND WEEKENDS FOR YEARS! very very rare when your not on nights im talking 10+ plus years and dont compare when you know someone that got off nights and weekends fast because it is super rare.
I have had to many students convince themselves they will be able to work days. Then they come to me and say they were only offered a night shift at a major hub. I'm just like yeah man I told you that was going to happen have fun moving.
So my former community college Southern Union of Opelika AL has the A&P certification course. Im 31 and lost my 20s working dead end retail/restaurant jobs and have been looking into going into this field or heat, air, and refrigeration which is also taught at the same school. Any advice?
I'd go into A&P pay is starting in the $30 an hour range, and lots of mechanics are making over 40. Plus overtime and benefits it's hard to beat. Personally I also love being an aircraft mechanic
As a mechanic in the desert, i would constantly soak whatever I was wearing in water. People thought that I sweat alot. Naw boss, I'm just keeping it cool.
I really miss all the aviation I did with my Dad. I was one of the few that didn't become a pilot because I couldn't do 45 degree banks without vertigo. But for some reason because a nurse which is becoming more toxic and dangerous as time goes on. I want to do this. I can't say much you tells me frightens me but gets me ready. Plus I'd rather work in a male dominated field.
I just retired from 30+ years with a major airline. In your talk about chemicals you forgot skydrol & lav juice. You really aren't a aircraft mechanic until you have dealt with those and especially gotten hydraulic fluid in your eyes. With regard to layoffs I was on the street for just under 5 years after 9/11 before I got recalled, versus the pandemic where only a few were laid off and were out a couple of weeks. This is a really dangerous business and I've seen people killed and maimed for life, your head must be on a swivel at all times. The work schedule information is very true, this is a 24/7/365 business. You will work many years of third shift and will suffer from fatigue & exhaustion. There is random drug & alcohol testing in this business and you never know when you are going to be tested. Would I get in this business again if I had to do it all over NO! FLY NAVY!!!
I didn't mention skydrol, but you are correct in saying that stuff is terrible no amount of lotion will make your skin feel better
Just went to buy my 21 year old grandson's tool to start working.
He went from high school in Hawaii, two years to graduate from Aviation Institute of Maintenance in Virginia and was offered a job at a small shop with great NASA trained mechanics.
He will gain so much more than just the money by working with this caliber of people and have a chance to delve into sheet metal and avionics to round out his knowledge.
As long as he focuses and pays attention to details, he should be able to pay off his debts and open future doors.
By 25 and hopefully still single, he can opt for the hours and make the big bucks and by 35 have a great best egg and figure out if he wants a family or to buy a house, etc.
I would suggest just making the money and building his net worth and knowledge.
Having a wife and family can happen much easier if he's 45 and well off.
Makes me wish I was starting over sometimes with the knowledge I have. That would be the greatest!
Your grandson is getting an amazing start. Not enough kids have that these days we wish him God speed and success
It is maybe time to listen to these guys after what happened in alaska !!!
been in aviation for a year and have totally fallen in, i work for a bigger company that works business jets and things like that, not the best pay but 5 days a week 8 hour schedule is great, there also putting me through school for my licenses. I came from concrete and will say my hands have been cut way worse from aviation then anything else still love it though
My dad is a general contractor so I will say this if you worked concrete you definitely have the work ethic for a great career. God Speed to you
Can you do a video guide to the oral practical test !!!!!!!!!
If u done it already please tell me how it went!!!
Try working on the ramp in Wisconsin in the winter. Would love to trade with you.
Yeah that sounds awful.
The extreme cold ain't fun, but to a certain extent you can always put more clothes on to keep warm. In the extreme heat there is NOTHING you can do about it. I don't know how the outdoor workers in the south deal with it. I'll take the cooler climate any day.
I could not live in Wisconsin.
I’m a recent a&p school graduate i have a diploma in aviation maintenance with decent grades. I couldn’t pass my A&P tests yet. Can i get a job for couple of years til i have more experience to take the tests? Or i wont be hired? What are my options? I really hope you answer this and thanks for the video.
First, thanks so much for watching. I will say I have done a couple of videos on what to study for your oral and practical Test as well as the changes since the ACS went into effect. That being said, yes, most places will hire you if you have your certificates of completion from apart 147 school. I would test now, though. Study while you're fresh out of school and get it done. The longer you wait, the harder it's going to be. However, I wish you the best of luck in whatever path you choose. Even as a non, A&P, you'll still make decent money.
I'm looking into doing this after the Army... doesn't seem too rough by comparison. They should be similar in terms of discomfort, right?
Personally being that I work with a bunch of retired military guys. I think aircraft maintenance outside the military is much easier and less stressful.
My son is going to be attending Liberty University's A&P associates program next fall. Hopefully they will have job placement but where is the best starting salary and does it vary all throughout the US? We are in NY and i was told metropolitan airports are close to 60 an hour? Would love to chat with someone to get more advice for him. Thank you.
It does vary state by state. Hopefully like you said his instructors can help. Down here in Texas where I'm at we have a job fair each semester and our industry partners talk to our students. As far as where he should go depends on how old he is/ how ready for the world you think he is. I say chase the money wiel you are young and go with a major airline. Or find a repair station like Boeing or ST engineering (be warned st pays awful wages but are good to build some experience)
Currently a truck mechanic, honestly debating and finding away to try into this now any advice
Going to a 147 school will be the fastest route, but it's hard to do that and also have a job. That being said, I feel like there is more potential earnings in aviation. Also, even big aircraft are small, the largest socket you will use. Most days is a 7/8" 99% of the aircraft is a 9/16" or smaller.