FAA Part 147: The Complete Guide to Aviation Maintenance Technician Training

Qualified aviation maintenance technicians are in demand. If you're exploring a career change or an alternative to a four-year degree, FAA Part 147 is a federally regulated pathway that can get you there.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) established the Federal Aviation Regulations to govern all aspects of aviation in the United States, including pilots, aircraft maintenance and flight schools. Within these regulations, FAA Part 147 sets the standards for aviation maintenance technician schools. 

Want to know what it takes to become an aircraft mechanic? Understanding FAA 147 is your first step.

What Is FAA Part 147?

Part 147 establishes minimum standards for aviation maintenance technician schools, setting requirements for curriculum, facilities, instructors, equipment, safety compliance and student assessment. Schools must hold an active Part 147 certificate and display it at their primary location and at other permanent training locations.

An FAA-approved school operates under stringent certification standards designed to produce job-ready technicians. In 2022, FAA Acting Administrator Billy Nolen introduced a modernization of Part 147 that shifted programs from rigid "seat time" to performance-based, competency-driven training. 

Schools gained flexibility in delivery methods, including distance and hybrid formats, while maintaining alignment with Mechanic Airman Certification Standards.

FAA Part 147 vs. Part 65.77

While Part 147 governs school operations, Part 65 governs individual mechanic certificate eligibility and testing. Part 65 outlines what a student needs to do to become a certified aviation mechanic, and Part 65.77 specifically details two distinct pathways to certification. You can either complete a course at an FAA Part 147 school or complete on-the-job training. 

If you want to qualify for certification through on-the-job training, you need to provide documentary evidence of your practical experience. This route can often take longer than formal education.

FAA Part 147 Training Requirements and Curriculum

Part 147 aviation maintenance technician schools must maintain curricula aligned with FAA mechanic certification standards. At A&P Mechanic Institute, training is structured into three segments — general, airframe and powerplant. 

Part 147 programs emphasize practical work with aircraft systems, trainers and engines. Students complete written checks, practical demonstrations and oral exams tied to Mechanic Airman Certification Standards, which define the competencies you must demonstrate to earn your certificate.

During your studies, you will complete a general, airframe and powerplant program. Each segment builds foundational knowledge before advancing to the next level.

General Certificate

The General segment builds foundational knowledge across seven core areas. These are:

• Basic electricity.

• Mathematics and physics.

• Aircraft drawings.

• Materials science.

• Fluid lines.

• Corrosion control.

• FAA regulations.

Most students complete this segment in four to six weeks of full-time study.

Airframe Rating

The Airframe segment trains students on aircraft structures and systems. You will learn about these specialized areas:

• Structures and sheet metal

• Composite materials

• Hydraulic systems

• Fuel systems

• Ice and rain control

• Fire protection

• Avionics

You can generally expect to spend between 16 and 20 weeks on this segment in a full-time program.

Powerplant Rating

The Powerplant segment focuses on engines and propulsion systems. During this course, you will learn about:

• Reciprocating engines.

• Turbine engines.

• Ignition systems.

• Fuel metering.

• Propellers.

• Lubrication.

• Engine inspection.

• Repair procedures.

This segment also runs 16 to 20 weeks in full-time programs.

How Long Is FAA Part 147 Training?

Most students complete training in 18 to 24 months, though several factors affect that timeline. Full-time courses offer the quickest path, while part-time programs allow you to better balance work and family life with your studies.

Schools vary in structure — some offer traditional classroom learning while others blend in-person and online training. Your own learning capacity and schedule will also influence how quickly you progress through the material.

FAA Part 147 Facilities and Equipment Requirements

Part 147 mandates minimum facilities, equipment and safety standards so students train on the same industry-standard equipment they'll use in the field.

Facilities

Schools provide climate-controlled classroom and lab space equipped for electrical, sheet metal and composite work. Hangar access gives students direct experience with aircraft or high-fidelity trainers. 

Facilities must support safe, practical training that aligns with applicable FAA requirements and workplace safety standards.

Equipment

Students work with a range of equipment to develop the practical skills they need in the field. Common examples include: 

• Aircraft systems trainers.

• Engine test stands for reciprocating and turbine engines.

• Sheet metal and welding equipment.

• Non-destructive testing equipment.

• Full aircraft for hands-on disassembly and assembly work.

Ongoing Standards and Inspections

Schools maintain documented equipment maintenance and replacement schedules, enabling students to develop real competency with the tools, materials and procedures they'll face on the job. 

Schools also submit to regular instructor-to-student ratio audits to ensure close supervision, individual feedback and safe working conditions. This regulatory structure ensures that schools produce highly competent technicians. 

FAA Part 147 Cost and Financial Aid

Tuition varies by school. While fees may vary, you can fund training through various grants, loans and scholarships. Some options include: 

• Earned federal benefits: Eligible veterans can use the GI Bill, an earned federal education benefit, to cover tuition at VA-approved Part 147 schools. Additionally, active-duty service members in their final 180 days of service may explore the DoD SkillBridge program.

• Grants: Pell Grants support eligible low-income students. 

• Loans: Federal Stafford loan programs remain available at many schools, and A&P Mechanic Institute partners with Sallie Mae to offer student loan options for eligible students. 

• Scholarships: Some airlines offer employer reimbursement for tuition. Additionally, aviation-specific scholarships are available through organizations such as the Experimental Aircraft Association and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, aircraft mechanics and service technicians earned a median salary of $78,680 per year in 2024.

Career Outcomes and Salary After Part 147 Training

All Part 147 graduates who pass FAA exams hold identical certificates, and employers often hire based on Airframe and Powerplant certification rather than the school technicians attended. Your salary will depend on your employer and location. Companies will also consider your experience.

Graduates find positions across the aviation industry. Commercial airlines hire for major and regional carriers, while maintenance facilities employ technicians at independent and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) shops. 

Corporate aviation offers private jet and executive fleet work, and general aviation focuses on small aircraft maintenance. Manufacturers need production support staff, and helicopter operators maintain rotorcraft fleets.

Demand for aviation maintenance technicians continues to grow. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% job growth from 2024 to 2034, exceeding the average for all occupations.

How to Choose an FAA Part 147 School

All Part 147 schools meet the same FAA standard, but they differ in cost, location, class size, campus resources and placement support. Here's how to choose the best school for you:

1. Confirm the school holds an active Part 147 certificate. 

2. Compare total program costs and tuition funding options.

3. Consider proximity and housing costs relative to your current situation.

4. Does the school offer both day or night classes as an option?

5. Look for instructors with real-world aviation experience. 

6. Ask about interview guarantees and employer partnerships.

Choose A&P Mechanic Institute for FAA Part 147 Training

A&P Mechanic Institute is an FAA Part 147 school in Central Florida with affordable pricing, tuition funding options, and full-time day or night class options.  All courses are taught by experienced FAA certified A&P instructors.

Ready to get started? Explore our comprehensive training courses and contact us today to find out more about our aircraft mechanic courses.