The aviation industry is seeing one of the biggest booms ever, especially on the Asian continent. Aeroplane juggernaut Boeing predicts that China will need 7,240 new aircraft over the next 20 years, valued at nearly US$1.1 trillion.

While many know of pilots and cabin crew who take up jobs in the plane, demand for those who work on the ground has increased dramatically, including that for aircraft maintenance engineers.

Boeing has forecast that global demand for aircraft technicians and engineers will hit 243,500 by 2030, with salaries reaching the five-figure range. The road to get there, though, can be complicated to navigate. Read on as we explain just how you can become a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer in Malaysia!

Do I need a degree to become an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer?

Before we begin, it’s crucial that students are aware just what they’re getting into. Many will opt for the obvious: a degree or diploma. However, it’s crucial to note that one does not necessarily need either and can obtain work in the field by obtaining licenses. One such license is known as the CAAM Part-66 Category A1; the basic license needed to be qualified as professional personnel to serve and maintain Malaysian aircrafts. The license is offered by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) only via accredited or approved training centres. With this basic license and other corresponding type-licenses along the way, an aircraft engineer can easily earn a 5-figured salary within a span of 10 years.

STEP 1: Check your SPM Results

Before you start mapping your personal journey to becoming a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer in your head, you need to ensure you meet the minimum requirements set by most institutes in Malaysia.

The most important thing you need to know is that the course is open to Science AND non-Science stream students. The specific SPM requirements are as follows:

• THREE credits in English, Mathematics and Physics OR Science
• Passed Bahasa Malaysia
• Passed Sejarah

Prospective students must also be medically fit and cannot be colour-blind, with supporting documents to prove so. Should you meet the above requirements, you may proceed to Step 2.

STEP 2: Choose a Training Centre

Arguably the most crucial step of the entire process is selecting a training centre. Just like how picking out a university requires meticulous research, choosing a training centre requires just as much, if not more attention.

The main thing to look out for? The training centre MUST be approved by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM). Previously known as the Department of Civil Aviation Malaysia, the training centre needs the CAAM stamp of approval if you hope to become a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. Be alert, and look for the logo below!

STEP 3: Foundation in Engineering (6 months)

A future Aircraft Maintenance Engineer will have to first complete a foundation in engineering programme prior to commencing their training. Most training centres offer this course packaged with their aircraft maintenance training course.

Why is this necessary, you ask? Well, it’s mainly because a bridging course is compulsory for post-SPM students to equip them with the basics prior to thrusting them into the more difficult and challenging environment of what comes next. Here are some topics you will tackle:

• Basic English for Communication
• Basics Mathematics
• Basics Physics
• Basics Aerodynamics
• Basics Fitting Practices
• Basics Basic Avionics
• Aircraft Maintenance Personnel Development (AMDP)

STEP 4: CAAM Part-66 Category A1 (2.5 years)

The bulk of your journey will be spent on this stage. The CAAM Part-66 Category A1 component will provide the essential knowledge one needs in order to become an aircraft technician. The course is divided into three main categories:

Theory and Practical (17 months)

Here, you will master subjects that range from mathematics and physics to turbine aeroplane aerodynamics and aviation legislation. You will also undergo practical training in the form of workshops and labs that cover similar topics, with a more hands-on approach.

Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Activities (12 months)

Students will put everything they have learnt to use as they undergo on-the-job training (OJT). Categorised as “CAP 741 Standard Practices”, this stage will see students finally get taste of what they have been dreaming of – dealing with actual operating aircrafts. Part of CAAM’s requirements is that you must participate in various fields such as general aircraft maintenance, wiring and looming, electrical power, assembly and more.

Application for Basic License and AMDP Certification (1 month)

It is important to note that should you pass the previous stages and complete the CAAM Part-66 Category A1, you may then apply for your license to officially become an aircraft maintenance technician. To become an aircraft maintenance engineer, you need to take one more step, which is explained below.

STEP 5: CAAM Part-66 Category B1

To continue your journey to become a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, you will need to do two things:

• Get 2 years of working experience
• Complete the CAAM Part-66 Category B1

Should you successfully obtain the two components above, you will then be eligible to become a Licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer. This license is highly important as it can help you move up the ranks quickly and receive a healthy bump in your salary that can reach 5-figures within 10 years.

While the salary is enticing and the prospect of working with aeroplanes does seem fun, it is important to remember to choose this career for the right reasons. A keen interest in aviation is a must. Another is a sense of responsibility, as you will be preserving aeroplanes that will transport hundreds of people on a daily basis. No pressure!

Are you interested in becoming a licensed aircraft maintenance engineer? Click here to read about Allied Aeronautics Training Centre (AATC), whose programme is 100% compliant to CAAM’s stipulations, comes ready with study-loan facilities and is comprehensively packaged with 12 months On-Job-Training with leading players such as Firefly, Malindo, Air Asia and Airod Aerospace.