Top 11 Aircraft Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for aircraft engineers in the job market because they demonstrate an individual's qualifications and expertise in their field. Certifications provide employers with assurance that the engineer is knowledgeable about industry standards and has the skills necessary to work on complex projects. They also show employers that an individual is committed to furthering their education and staying up-to-date with current trends and technologies. Additionally, certifications can be used as a way to differentiate one candidate from another when applying for a job, allowing employers to make more informed hiring decisions.

This article reviews the top certifications for Aircraft Engineers and explains how they can help advance an aircraft engineer's career.

What are Aircraft Engineer Certifications?

Aircraft engineer certification is a type of professional certification that is designed to demonstrate an individual's knowledge and skill in the areas of aircraft maintenance, repair, and operation. It is awarded by organizations like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

Having an aircraft engineer certification can be extremely beneficial for anyone looking to work in the aviation industry. It can provide individuals with a competitive edge when applying for jobs and can help them stand out from other applicants. Having a certificate also demonstrates that the individual has met certain standards set by industry authorities regarding aircraft safety and operations.

The certification process typically involves taking courses related to aircraft engineering, passing examinations, and gaining practical experience through internships or on-the-job training. Those who successfully complete all requirements will be awarded a certificate that indicates their level of knowledge and competence in the field.

In addition to providing individuals with a competitive edge when applying for jobs, having an aircraft engineer certification also helps ensure that workers are up-to-date on all safety regulations related to aircraft maintenance and operation. This helps reduce the risk of accidents caused by human error or technical problems. Furthermore, it helps build public trust in aviation professionals since they have proven their qualifications through rigorous testing and training requirements.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the requirements for aircraft engineer certification in your local jurisdiction. Certification requirements vary by region, so it is important to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements that apply to where you live. Additionally, be sure to keep up with any changes or updates that are issued by the governing agency in order to maintain your certification.

Related: What does an Aircraft Engineer do?

Top 11 Aircraft Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Aircraft Engineers today.

1. Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certification

Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certification is a credential that certifies an individual as a qualified aircraft mechanic. This certification is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and requires the successful completion of both written and practical exams. The certification allows mechanics to work on all parts of an aircraft, including airframes, engines, electrical systems, and other components.

The A&P certification process typically takes between six months to two years to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level and commitment to studying for the exams. To get started, individuals must first obtain their FAA Airframe Mechanic Certificate or their FAA Powerplant Mechanic Certificate. These certificates require applicants to pass both written and practical tests in order to demonstrate knowledge of aircraft maintenance principles. Once these certificates are obtained, applicants can then apply for their A&P certification by submitting additional paperwork and taking a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of aircraft maintenance.

The cost of obtaining an A&P certification varies depending on the individual’s experience level and study materials used. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 for tuition fees, books, supplies, testing fees, etc. In addition to these costs, individuals may also need to purchase tools or specialized equipment in order to complete certain tasks while working on aircrafts.

2. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certification

Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certification is a certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that shows an individual has met the necessary qualifications to perform aircraft maintenance and repairs. The certification is divided into three categories: Airframe, Powerplant, and Inspection Authorization.

To obtain AMT Certification, an individual must have at least 18 months of practical experience in aircraft maintenance or repair and must pass an FAA written exam for each category of certification. The written exams are administered at designated FAA testing centers throughout the United States.

The cost of obtaining AMT Certification varies depending on the type of certification sought. For example, an Airframe rating may cost between $150 - $500 while a Powerplant rating may cost between $300 - $1,000. In addition to the cost of taking the exams, there may also be fees associated with obtaining a medical certificate as well as any applicable state licensing fees.

It typically takes six months to one year to obtain all three categories of AMT Certification after completing all required training and passing all exams.

3. FAA Airworthiness Inspector Certification

FAA Airworthiness Inspector Certification is a certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that allows an individual to inspect and certify aircraft for airworthiness. The certification is required for all aircraft maintenance technicians, repairmen, and inspectors who are responsible for ensuring that an aircraft meets safety standards set by the FAA.

To obtain the certification, applicants must first complete a formal training program approved by the FAA. The program typically consists of both classroom instruction and hands-on experience in aircraft maintenance and inspection. Upon completion of the training program, applicants must pass a written exam administered by the FAA.

The cost of obtaining an FAA Airworthiness Inspector Certification varies depending on the type of training program chosen. Generally speaking, courses range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

Once certified, an individual will be able to inspect and certify aircraft for airworthiness in accordance with FAA regulations. This includes inspecting components such as engines, propellers, fuel systems, electrical systems, flight controls, navigation systems, and other components necessary for safe operation of an aircraft. Additionally, they may also be responsible for performing routine maintenance on aircraft as well as troubleshooting any problems that arise during inspections or maintenance activities.

In general, it takes approximately three months to become certified as an FAA Airworthiness Inspector after completing all requirements outlined by the FAA.

4. FAA Avionics Technician Certification

FAA Avionics Technician Certification is an official certification granted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to those who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the maintenance and repair of aircraft avionics systems. This certification is required for anyone who wishes to be employed as an aviation technician, and it is also necessary for those who wish to work on aircraft that are certified for commercial use.

In order to obtain FAA Avionics Technician Certification, applicants must first complete a two-year apprenticeship program or four-year college degree program in avionics technology. They must then pass a written exam administered by the FAA, which covers topics such as electrical theory, electronic components, troubleshooting techniques, and safety procedures. After passing this exam, applicants must then take a practical test at an FAA-approved facility. This test will assess their ability to install, maintain, and troubleshoot avionics systems on aircraft.

The cost of obtaining FAA Avionics Technician Certification varies depending on the type of training program chosen and other factors such as location. Generally speaking, however, it can cost anywhere from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

Once all requirements have been met and the tests have been passed successfully, applicants will receive their official FAA Avionics Technician Certificate within several weeks. This certificate will need to be renewed every two years in order to remain valid.

5. FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) Certification

FAA Inspection Authorization (IA) Certification is a certification that allows an individual to perform annual and 100-hour inspections on aircraft. This certification is required for any person who wishes to become an FAA-certified airframe and powerplant mechanic. The IA certification is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and must be renewed every two years.

In order to obtain an IA certification, applicants must have at least 18 months of experience in aircraft maintenance, hold a valid Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certificate, and pass the FAA's written IA exam. The exam covers topics such as aircraft systems, regulations, inspection procedures, safety practices, and more. Applicants must also submit their A&P certificate along with a completed application form to the FAA for review before they can take the exam.

The cost of taking the IA exam varies depending on where it is taken. It typically costs around $150-$200 for the exam itself plus any applicable taxes or fees. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with studying materials or taking preparatory courses prior to taking the test.

The time it takes to get an IA certification depends on how quickly you can complete all of the necessary steps outlined above. Generally speaking, it should take between 4-6 weeks from start to finish if all requirements are met in a timely manner.

6. Commercial Pilot License (CPL)

A Commercial Pilot License (CPL) is a license that allows pilots to be paid for their services as a pilot. This type of license requires more training and experience than the private pilot license, and it allows pilots to fly larger aircraft with more passengers.

To obtain a CPL, you must first have a private pilot license and then complete additional training. This includes an additional 40 hours of flight time, 10 hours of instrument flight time, 5 hours of night flying, and a written exam. You also need to pass a medical exam administered by an aviation medical examiner.

The cost of obtaining a CPL varies depending on the type of aircraft you are flying and the number of hours required for training. Generally speaking, it will cost between $10,000-$20,000 USD to obtain your CPL.

In total, it takes approximately 6-12 months to obtain your CPL depending on how much time you can dedicate to training each week.

7. Certified Flight Instructor (CFI)

A Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) is a pilot who has been trained and certified by the FAA to teach the fundamentals of flying to other pilots. A CFI must have a commercial pilot certificate, an instrument rating, and at least 250 hours of flight time. To become a CFI, you must complete an FAA-approved ground school course, pass the written exam, and pass the practical test with an FAA examiner. The course typically takes several weeks to complete and can cost anywhere from $2,000-$4,000. Once you have completed all the requirements for certification, you will receive your CFI certificate from the FAA.

8. Aircraft Dispatcher Certification

Aircraft Dispatcher Certification is a professional certification that allows individuals to work in the aviation industry as an aircraft dispatcher. An Aircraft Dispatcher is responsible for the safe operation of a flight by ensuring that all necessary paperwork and safety procedures are followed. This includes weather assessment, flight planning, and communication with air traffic control.

In order to become an Aircraft Dispatcher, you must complete a certification program approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The program typically takes between six months and one year to complete, depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying. During this time, you will learn about aircraft systems, aviation regulations, meteorology, navigation, and more. You will also be required to pass both written and practical exams before receiving your certification.

The cost of Aircraft Dispatcher Certification varies depending on the school or program you choose. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $5,000-$10,000 for the entire course of study. This includes tuition fees as well as any materials or books needed for the coursework.

Once you have completed your training and passed all necessary exams, you will receive your Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate from the FAA. This certificate is valid for two years and must be renewed every two years in order to remain valid.

9. Certified Aviation Manager (CAM)

Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of aviation managers in the business aviation industry. The CAM program provides a comprehensive review of topics related to business aviation management, including aircraft operations, safety, security, finance and administration, human resources, maintenance and engineering, flight planning and dispatch, customer service, and more.

The CAM program consists of a two-day seminar followed by an online exam. The seminar covers all aspects of business aviation management and is designed to prepare participants for the online exam. Participants must successfully complete both components in order to receive their CAM certification.

To get certified as a CAM requires completing the two-day seminar and passing the online exam with a score of 80% or higher. The cost for the two-day seminar is $1,200 plus applicable taxes. The cost for the online exam is $350 plus applicable taxes.

In total it takes around three days to become a Certified Aviation Manager (CAM).

10. Certified Quality Auditor in Aviation, Space, and Defense (CQA-ASD)

Certified Quality Auditor in Aviation, Space, and Defense (CQA-ASD) is a certification program that provides auditors with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform quality audits in the aviation, space, and defense industries. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of quality auditing principles, practices, and procedures as they relate to these industries.

The CQA-ASD certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). To become certified, applicants must pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality management systems, auditing techniques, and statistical process control.

The cost of the CQA-ASD certification exam varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or not. For non-members, the fee is $450 USD; for members it is $400 USD. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and can be taken at any ASQ approved testing center around the world.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain experience requirements in order to be eligible for certification. Applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in quality auditing or related fields within the aviation, space or defense industries.

Once certified, CQA-ASD professionals are expected to maintain their certification status by completing continuing education activities every three years. This requirement helps ensure that certified professionals stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

11. International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) Certificate

The International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG) Certificate is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a company’s commitment to quality and excellence in the aerospace industry. It is awarded by IAQG, which is a global organization of aerospace companies dedicated to improving quality and performance in the aerospace industry.

It typically takes 6-12 months for a company to complete the process of obtaining an IAQG Certificate. The process involves implementing an effective quality management system, meeting specific requirements set by IAQG, and passing an audit conducted by an accredited third-party auditor.

To get started on the process of obtaining an IAQG Certificate, companies must first register with IAQG and submit their application for certification. Once registered, they will be provided with information on the requirements they must meet in order to obtain the certificate. Companies must then create or update their existing quality management system to meet these requirements and document it appropriately. After this is done, they can then contact a third-party auditor who is accredited by IAQG to conduct an audit of their system. If all goes well during this audit, the company will be awarded their IAQG Certificate.

The cost of obtaining an IAQG Certificate varies depending on several factors such as the size of the company, complexity of its operations, and scope of certification requested. Generally speaking, however, it can range from several thousand dollars up to tens of thousands depending on these factors.

Do You Really Need a Aircraft Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. First, what type of aircraft are you planning to work on? If you plan to work on large commercial aircraft, then yes, an Aircraft Engineer Certificate is necessary. This certificate is required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is a prerequisite for any engineer working in the industry.

However, if you plan to work on smaller aircraft or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), then an Aircraft Engineer Certificate may not be required. For example, some hobbyists may choose to build their own planes or drones and in many cases they do not need a certificate. In addition, some engineering roles such as software development don’t require a certificate either.

Ultimately, the decision whether or not to obtain an Aircraft Engineer Certificate should depend on the specific job requirements and your experience level in the field. If you have no prior experience with aircraft engineering but wish to pursue it as a career path, then obtaining an Aircraft Engineer Certificate can be beneficial as it will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills needed for the job. However, if you already possess significant experience in this area and have other certifications that demonstrate your competency in the field, then an Aircraft Engineer Certificate may not be necessary.

Related: Aircraft Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Aircraft Engineer Certifications

1. What is the process for becoming an aircraft engineer?

Answer: The process for becoming an aircraft engineer typically involves completing a relevant degree or diploma program in aeronautical engineering, followed by gaining practical experience through an apprenticeship or internship in a related field. After that, you'll need to obtain the necessary certifications and licenses from the appropriate aviation authority in your country of residence.

2. What certifications are required to become an aircraft engineer?

Answer: Depending on the type of aircraft you want to work on, there may be different certifications required, such as Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) certification, Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) certification and/or Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) certification.

3. How long does it take to become certified as an aircraft engineer?

Answer: It can take anywhere from several months to several years, depending on the certifications and qualifications you need to obtain. Generally speaking, most people will require at least one year of study before they can apply for their certifications.

4. Are there any online courses available for aircraft engineering certifications?

Answer: Yes, there are a variety of online courses available for those interested in obtaining their aircraft engineering certifications. These include both distance learning programs and self-paced online courses which allow students to work at their own pace and complete the coursework within their own time frame.

5. Is it possible to transfer my existing engineering qualifications into an aviation qualification?

Answer: Yes, many countries have systems in place which allow individuals with existing engineering qualifications to transfer these over into aviation qualifications with relative ease. It is important however that you check with your local aviation authority first before making any decisions as each country has different requirements and procedures in place when it comes to transferring existing qualifications into aviation-related ones.