Is It Worth It to Study in Aviation and What is the Best Career Option?

It’s no secret that the aviation industry is a relatively popular industry to work in but among all the careers in the field, which one is truly worth it to pursue? Not to point fingers but as we can see, even the stewardess and pilots (all of whom are part of the aviation industry) still lost their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Well buckle up, because this article will give you a thorough and complete guide to an aircraft mechanic career – including the expected average salary!

So, what exactly does an aircraft mechanic do?

Much like our usual car mechanics, aircraft maintenance technicians (AMTs) are responsible for performing repairs, and preventative and routine maintenance on all types of aircraft and helicopters. Their tasks include, but not limited to, diagnosing either electrical or mechanical problems, examine aircraft frames and parts for defects, repairs wings, brakes, electrical systems, and other aircraft components.

They have an enormous amount of responsibility when it comes to maintaining and inspecting aircraft for service and for meeting safety standards, as it can affect people's lives. Which is why aircraft maintenance technicians are constantly in high demand because the military, airlines, government, and many other companies need them.

Without aircraft mechanics, we can’t exactly fly, can we?

What do you need to be an aircraft mechanic?

Aircraft maintenance technicians need specific training, an eye for detail, and a basic understanding of how things work. And because they shoulder a large amount of responsibility when it comes to maintaining and inspecting aircraft for service, being professional and diligent is important for aircraft mechanics.

Today’s airplanes are highly complex machines that require reliable parts and service to fly safely so it is incredibly important that you are equipped with relevant technical knowledge. In addition, an aircraft mechanic’s work mainly revolves around solving problems, so you also need to be analytical and creative!

Are you qualified to be an aircraft maintenance engineer?

Well, to be an aircraft maintenance engineer, you need to have an Aircraft Maintenance Licence as well as a few years’ worth of experience as an aircraft mechanic as under your belt. The more experienced you are, the higher the salary.

But, what’s the average salary in Malaysia?

Below is the expected salary you can make as an aircraft mechanic in Malaysia. Heads up, if you happen to have your licenses acknowledged and accredited by international universities and organizations, then chances are you can negotiate a higher salary. Even better, you might even get the opportunity to work abroad which translates to – yup, you guess it – an ever higher pay!

Okay, so how does your education pathway look like?

For post-SPM students, the best road to take is to immediately pursue your education with this field. Pursue your diploma in aircraft maintenance at any university and institution approved by the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAMM) – it is compulsory that all aviation related courses need to be approved by CAAM.

Consider Nilai University’s School of Aircraft Maintenance. Their Diploma in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering incorporates the European Aviation Safety Agency* (EASA) syllabus, preparing you for the EASA Part 66 Category B1 or B2 licence examinations. You sit for the EASA license examination at the same time as you pursue your diploma, which is the first step in gaining a full EASA licence.

For those interested, you can check out their entry requirements right here, and apply with this link! Student intake at Nilai University is open throughout the year on January, June and October.

Upon the completion of your diploma, don’t just end your journey there! Upgrade your skills and knowledge by pursuing a degree. Obtain A BEng (Hons) in Aircraft Engineering from international universities such as Kingston University, London alongside an Advanced Diploma in Aircraft Engineering Technology by Nilai University.  

If you follow these steps, you are guaranteed to have a successful and lucrative career as an aircraft maintenance engineer!