Airframe Maintenance Course
Airframe Program Course Breakdown
Prerequisites for this course include completion of a general aviation maintenance program or an FAA Powerplant Mechanic certification. To then become a licensed Airframe mechanic, you must master a diverse set of technical skills. We've divided our airframe maintenance curriculum into focused modules that build upon one another, ensuring you have the manual dexterity and technical knowledge required for the field.
Metallic and Non-Metallic Structures
Modern aircraft are a blend of classic materials and cutting-edge technology. You will learn to inspect, repair and fabricate the physical structure of the plane:
Sheet metal and welding: Master the art of cutting, bending and riveting aluminum, which is the most common task for airframe mechanics. You will also cover welding techniques for steel, magnesium and titanium.
Composites and non-metallics: Learn to work with honeycomb structures, fiberglass and plastics, which are increasingly common in modern aviation.
Wood, coverings and finishes: While less common on jets, understanding wood structures and fabric coverings is a federally required skill that sharpens your attention to detail.
Aircraft Systems and Components
Once you understand the structure, you will dive into the systems that bring the aircraft to life:
Hydraulics and pneumatics: Learn the fluid power principles behind heavy-duty systems like landing gear retraction and braking systems.
Environmental systems: Study cabin atmosphere control, including pressurization, heating, cooling and oxygen systems.
Utility systems: Gain hands-on experience with ice and rain control, fire protection systems and fuel systems.
Assembly, Rigging and Inspection
The final piece is putting it all together and ensuring the aircraft is safe for flight:
Assembly and rigging: Learn to align wings and stabilizers and rig flight control surfaces (ailerons, rudders) for proper aerodynamic performance.
Airframe inspection: Master the 14 CFR Part 147 Appendix C conformity inspections, learning how to perform the critical 100-hour and annual inspections that keep passengers safe.
Why Choose Our Airframe Maintenance Training?
We know you have a choice between traditional four-year colleges and trade schools. We've built our program for the future technician who wants to start earning.
Fast-track your certification: Our streamlined curriculum gets you into the workforce in a fraction of the time it takes to earn a university degree.
Guaranteed interviews: Thanks to our unique position within the International AeroTech group, our graduates receive guaranteed interviews with our partner flight schools and repair stations.
Affordable tuition: Our admissions team works with you to explore financial aid and financing options, making our tuition rates highly competitive compared to other technical institutes.