Aviation & Aerospace
Aircraft Mechanic (A&P Certified)
Maintain and repair airplanes. FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certified mechanics are in severe shortage — signing bonuses at major airlines are common.
no-degree-requiredhigh-demandhands-on
64
ROI · Strong
Investment vs return
Cost · time · demand normalized 0–100
Salary progression
What you'll earn over your career
$50k
$78k
$115k
Entry
Mid-career
Senior
10-yr outlook
+4%
+4% (Average)
Open positions
13,000
Estimated nationwide
Entry paths
How to get here
Multiple paths lead to this career. Compare time, cost, online vs in-person delivery, and program links.
Trade School In Person
FAA-approved A&P Certificate
Time
18–24 months
Cost
$15,000 – $40,000
Top programs
Major airlines often offer signing bonuses + relocation.
Fastest ROI
Apprenticeship In Person
Military aviation maintenance → A&P
Time
4–6 years service
Cost
Paid / Free
Military experience qualifies for direct A&P testing.
Affiliate disclosure: Some of the program links above may be affiliate partnerships. If you enroll, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only link to programs we have actually reviewed against our methodology. See our methodology for how we evaluate schools.
Quick math
If you took the fastest path…
You'd train for
4–6 years service
You'd spend (avg)
Paid / Free
Starting salary
$50,000
Mid-career
$78,000
Read more
Articles & resources
Sources: BLS OOH 2024 · FAA