Aircraft Inspector Career Guide

What is an aircraft inspector?

An aircraft inspector checks planes and their parts to make sure they’re safe to fly. This job is super important for keeping everyone on board and the plane itself safe. They look over everything from the plane’s body to its electronic systems to verify everything’s working right. Thanks to these experts, airlines know that their flights are safe.

Duties and responsibilities

Aircraft inspectors have a big checklist. They ensure that planes meet all safety rules and match what the plane makers say they should. They check the structure and mechanics of planes and helicopters, look over repair records, and make sure any extra gear is put in right.

They also keep an eye on mechanics to approve their work, double-check maintenance records, and test flight systems with special tools. If something goes wrong, like an accident, these inspectors help figure out why.

Work environment

These inspectors usually work at places where planes are fixed, like hangars or right at the airport. They must be ready to work around loud noises and different weather, sometimes in cramped or high places. They wear safety gear like ear protection and harnesses. 

Typical work hours

The hours can be pretty different depending on the job and place. Some inspectors work regular day hours, but others might have shifts because airports are always running. They might need to work extra during extensive repairs or if there’s an emergency. Some inspectors also have changing schedules, especially when looking into plane problems.

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How to become an aircraft inspector

Want to check planes for safety? Here’s the straightforward path to becoming an aircraft inspector:

Step 1: Finish high school

First things first, you need a high school diploma or GED. Pay extra attention to math, physics, and mechanics classes because they’ll come in handy later.

Step 2: Go to college for aviation

After high school, enroll in an aviation maintenance or aircraft mechanics program. Look for programs that offer a certificate or an associate’s degree and teach you about aircraft systems and how to fix them. Make sure the program is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) so it’s legit.

Step 3: Get your hands dirty

Next, get some real experience. Work as an aircraft mechanic or technician to get familiar with different aircraft systems and how to maintain them.

Step 4: Get certified by the FAA

In the U.S., you need to pass some FAA exams to get your Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification. This license certifies you to work on aircraft.

Step 5: Specialize in inspections

Gain experience in inspection and quality control by joining inspection teams. This is where you make sure everything checks out and follows regulations.

Step 6: Level up to IA

To do the deeper inspections, you’ll need an FAA Inspection Authorization (IA). You need three years of experience and must pass an FAA written exam for this.

Step 7: Apply for jobs

Now, you’re ready to apply for aircraft inspector jobs at airlines, aircraft manufacturers, or government agencies. Make your resume pop with your experience and certifications.

Step 8: Keep learning

Stay sharp and keep up with new stuff in aviation through workshops, seminars, or online courses. This keeps you on top of your game and helps your career grow.

Here are some online courses we recommend: 

• Dive into the physics of flying and learn how weather affects flights with courses like Coursera’s Flight Mechanics: Anemobarometry.  
• Get to know the rules of aircraft maintenance with Udemy’s Aircraft Maintenance: Understanding the FARs.
• Understand essential aviation systems with Udemy’s courses on ILS, PAPI & MLS Systems. 
• Explore airplane design and engineering with Masterclass’ Aerospace Masterclass: Aircraft Design. 

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How much do aircraft inspectors make?

Many factors can influence the salary of aircraft inspectors, including their location, education, certifications, and specialized aviation maintenance or inspection training. Experience and the size and type of their employer are other key factors impacting their compensation.

Browse aircraft inspector salary data by market

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Types of aircraft inspectors

• Commercial aircraft inspector: These inspectors make sure commercial planes are safe and follow all the rules. They work for airlines, places that fix planes, or government regulators. 
• Military aircraft inspector: Inspectors in the military check out fighter jets, big transport planes, and helicopters to ensure they’re ready for missions. They could be soldiers or civilians working for the military.
• General aviation aircraft inspector: These inspectors deal with smaller planes like private jets. They might work at small plane repair shops, for regulators, or themselves, helping plane owners keep their rides in tip-top shape.
• Helicopter inspector: Since helicopters are a bit different from planes, these inspectors need special skills. They work for helicopter makers or places that maintain helicopters.
• Aircraft engine inspector: Some inspectors specialize in engines, checking that they run smoothly and safely. They could work for engine manufacturers, repair shops, or regulators.
• Avionics inspector: These tech-savvy inspectors focus on the electronic side of planes, such as navigation and communication systems. They make sure all these gadgets work properly and are safe.
• Quality assurance inspector: Quality assurance inspectors help verify that planes are built and maintained properly. They work for manufacturers or repair places.
• Aircraft inspector instructor: Ever think about teaching? These inspectors train the next generation of aircraft inspectors at schools or training programs, sharing their knowledge and skills with students eager to learn the trade.

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Top skills for aircraft inspectors

• Knowing the rules: Aircraft inspectors need to know a lot about the rules that keep flying safe. This deep knowledge helps them spot problems and keep things in line.
• Eye for details: Details matter a lot when it comes to inspecting planes. Missing a small issue can lead to big problems, so these pros need to be super careful and focused.
• Tech skills: These inspectors are also tech whizzes. Whether it’s the mechanics or the electronics, they’ve got to handle it all.
• Understanding complex info: Aircraft inspectors have to read and make sense of complicated stuff like maintenance manuals and technical schematics. They must understand these to properly check a plane’s history and condition.
• Talking it out: They need to be clear when they talk or write about what they find. Whether explaining a problem to a pilot or writing a report for regulators, good communication helps ensure everyone knows what needs to be fixed to keep the plane safe.
• Solving problems: Inspectors often run into unexpected issues. They need to think on their feet, figuring out what’s wrong and the best way to fix it.
• Using the right tools: Knowing how to use various inspection tools, like ultrasonic testers and borescopes, is a big part of the job. These tools help them find issues that aren’t obvious just by looking.

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Aircraft inspector career path

Start with the basics 

You’ll likely start by studying aircraft maintenance or aviation technology. This usually happens at a technical school or community college, and sometimes through military training. This education is your stepping stone.

Get certified 

After school, the next big step is getting certified, like grabbing the FAA’s A&P certificate. This is like your golden ticket to start working on planes.

Gain experience 

Start working jobs like aircraft mechanic or avionics technician. This is where you get your hands dirty, literally, by fixing and maintaining all types of aircraft. It’s all about getting as much experience as you can.

Move up to inspector 

Once you’ve got the skills, you can step up to become an aircraft inspector. This job is all about making sure planes are safe and meet all the safety and maintenance standards. It’s a big responsibility because you’re making sure everyone flying is safe.

Lead the team 

If you’re good at what you do, you might become a lead inspector or even move into management roles like quality assurance manager or maintenance director. In these positions, you oversee other inspectors and ensure that all the maintenance work is top-notch.

Reach the top 

The career could even take you to the very top spots like chief inspector or vice president of quality assurance. Here, you’re in charge of the big picture, making strategic decisions about how aircraft are maintained.

Explore related areas 

Some inspectors choose to branch out into other cool areas like teaching about aircraft maintenance, focusing on aviation safety, or investigating accidents.

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Similar job titles

• Aircraft Electrician
• Aircraft Painter
• Air Traffic Controller
• Aviation Engine Mechanic
• Aviation Service Technician
• Avionics Technician

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Aircraft inspector position trends and outlook

As planes get more high-tech, with new stuff like electric engines and advanced materials, aircraft inspectors need to keep learning. It’s super important to stay on top of changes in how planes are made and maintained, and what new rules and standards are popping up.

Employment projections

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says jobs for transportation inspectors, including aircraft inspectors, are expected to grow by 6% by 2031. That’s about the same as the average job growth rate, so it’s a solid pick if you’re into a career that keeps you on your toes.

To stand out in this field, focus on beefing up your technical skills and understanding the latest in aircraft tech. Also, getting extra certifications can really show off your expertise and dedication to the job.

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Aircraft inspector career tips

Get the right education and training

Kick things off with a specialized education in aircraft maintenance or aviation technology. You can grab a degree or certificate from a cool tech school. Plus, try to get some real-world experience through working in the industry or an apprenticeship.

Earn your certifications

Show you mean business by getting certified. In the U.S., the FAA’s A&P certificate is a must-have. You might also want to go for extra creds like the IA certificate to really stand out.

Sharpen your detail detection

Being super attentive to details is crucial. Small mistakes can lead to big problems in aviation. Work on your precision and set up routines that help you catch and fix issues before they become hazards.

Master the tools of the trade

Get to know the tools specific to aircraft inspection, like borescopes and ultrasonic testers. Being a pro with these can make your job easier and safer.

Focus on safety and rules

Stick to safety rules and regulations like glue. Knowing and following these guidelines keeps everyone safe and keeps you out of trouble.

Boost your problem-solving skills

Work on figuring out tough problems quickly and effectively. This means looking at issues, thinking through solutions, and deciding the best way to fix things.

Communicate like a pro

Be clear and concise when you talk and write. Good communication helps avoid mix-ups and makes it easier to work with others.

Play well with others

Since you’ll often work with a team, being a good team player is key. Help out, share ideas, and respect your coworkers. Good relationships can make work go smoothly.

Keep up with tech and trends

The aviation world changes fast, with new tech coming out all the time. Stay in the loop by reading up, going to workshops, and joining groups like the Professional Aviation Maintenance Association (PAMA) or the Aviation Technician Education Council (ATEC).

Build your network

Networking isn’t just for business execs. Meeting other people in aviation can open doors and give you insights you wouldn’t find on your own. Attend industry events and seminars and join relevant groups to meet peers and experts.

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FAQs