Top 11 Helicopter Mechanic Certifications

Certifications are highly important for helicopter mechanics in the job market, as they demonstrate a level of expertise and proficiency that employers look for. These certifications provide proof that a mechanic has completed the necessary training and education to effectively diagnose and repair aircraft systems. Additionally, many employers require certain certifications as a prerequisite for employment, so having them can give applicants an edge over those without them. Finally, certifications help helicopter mechanics stay up to date on the latest technologies related to their field and show their commitment to professional development.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of certifications for Helicopter Mechanics and their potential benefits to career advancement.

What are Helicopter Mechanic Certifications?

Helicopter mechanic certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain and repair helicopters. This type of certification is typically provided by organizations like the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or other aviation-specific bodies. It can be a great asset for anyone looking to pursue a career in helicopter maintenance and repair, as it provides employers with assurance that the individual is qualified to work on helicopters safely and accurately.

Having this certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the field, as they have proven their knowledge and expertise through this certification process. Additionally, having helicopter mechanic certification ensures that aircraft mechanics are up-to-date on safety regulations, technical requirements, and other industry standards required to work on helicopters. This helps ensure that any repairs or maintenance performed are done correctly and safely.

Pro Tip: Before applying for helicopter mechanic certification, make sure you have a thorough understanding of the aircraft's systems and components. Additionally, it is important to gain hands-on experience in the field by working with an experienced mechanic or taking part in an apprenticeship program. Finally, do your research and become familiar with the various certifications available to ensure that you choose the best option for your career goals.

Related: What does a Helicopter Mechanic do?

Top 11 Helicopter Mechanic Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Helicopter Mechanics today.

1. Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certification

Aircraft Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and ability to perform maintenance on aircraft. This certification is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and is required for all individuals who work on aircraft in the United States.

In order to obtain AMT Certification, an individual must complete a series of tests, known as “Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Exams”. The exams cover topics such as aircraft systems, safety regulations, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting techniques. The exams must be taken at an FAA-approved testing center and can take up to two days to complete.

Once the exams are passed, applicants will receive their AMT Certification from the FAA. The cost of taking the A&P Exams varies depending on the number of tests taken, but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

In addition to passing the A&P Exams, individuals must also have at least 18 months of experience working with aircraft in order to be eligible for AMT Certification.

2. Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) License

An Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) License is a certification issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). It allows an individual to work on aircraft, including engines, propellers, and other components. An A&P license is required for any individual who wants to perform maintenance on aircraft.

It typically takes between 18 months and two years to get an A&P license. The process involves completing a minimum of 30 semester hours of FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school courses, passing the FAA written exam, and passing the FAA oral and practical exams.

To get an A&P license, you must first complete a minimum of 30 semester hours of FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school courses. You must also pass the FAA written exam with at least 70% accuracy. After passing the written exam, you will be eligible to take the FAA oral and practical exams which are administered by designated FAA Mechanics Examiners (MEs).

The cost of getting an A&P license varies depending on your location and the type of training program you choose. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 for tuition fees alone. Additional costs may include books, supplies, travel expenses for taking exams at approved testing centers, as well as any applicable application or exam fees.

3. Helicopter Maintenance Technician (HMT) Certification

Helicopter Maintenance Technician (HMT) Certification is a certification that is designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of individuals who work on helicopters. It is issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The certification requires that applicants demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the areas of aircraft maintenance, inspection, and repair.

It typically takes two to four years to complete the requirements for HMT Certification. During this time, applicants must complete an FAA-approved course of study in helicopter maintenance, pass a written exam, and perform an on-the-job training program with an approved employer. They must also pass a practical test administered by an FAA inspector or Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE).

To get HMT Certification, applicants must first obtain a student pilot certificate from the FAA. Once they have completed their coursework and passed their exams, they can then apply for HMT Certification. Applicants must submit proof of their experience and training to the FAA along with a fee for processing their application.

The cost of obtaining HMT Certification varies depending on where you are taking your courses and how long it takes you to complete them. Generally speaking, it costs between $2,000-$4,000 to obtain HMT Certification. This includes costs associated with tuition fees, textbooks and other materials related to the coursework as well as any fees associated with taking exams or practical tests.

4. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Inspection Authorization (IA)

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Inspection Authorization (IA) is a certification that allows an individual to perform annual inspections and certain other maintenance tasks on aircraft. It is a requirement for anyone who wants to work as a professional aircraft mechanic or technician. The IA certification requires the individual to demonstrate knowledge of FAA regulations, airworthiness standards, and safety procedures.

It typically takes between six months and one year to obtain an IA certification. This includes studying for and passing the FAA written exam, completing an approved course in aircraft maintenance, and obtaining practical experience working with aircraft. In addition, applicants must have at least 18 months of practical experience working on aircraft within the past three years prior to applying for the IA certification.

To get an IA certification, applicants must first pass the FAA written exam. Once they have passed this exam, they must then complete an approved course in aircraft maintenance from an accredited aviation school or institution. After completing the course, applicants must then gain practical experience working on aircraft by performing supervised maintenance tasks under the supervision of a qualified instructor or mechanic. Finally, applicants must submit their application form along with all required documentation to the FAA for review and approval.

The cost of getting an IA certification varies depending on where you take your courses and how much practical experience you need to gain before applying for the certification. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 USD depending on your situation.

5. National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies (NCATT) Helicopter Maintenance Technician Certificate

The National Center for Aerospace and Transportation Technologies (NCATT) Helicopter Maintenance Technician Certificate is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of helicopter maintenance technicians. This certificate is awarded by NCATT in partnership with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The certificate requires completion of four courses: Basic Helicopter Maintenance, Advanced Helicopter Maintenance, Avionics Systems, and Human Factors in Aircraft Maintenance. Each course consists of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and a written exam. The entire program takes approximately six months to complete.

To get the certificate, applicants must first complete an application form and submit it to NCATT. Once accepted into the program, applicants must pay a fee of $1,000 for all four courses. After completing all four courses, applicants must pass a comprehensive final exam administered by NCATT. Successful candidates will then receive their NCATT Helicopter Maintenance Technician Certificate.

The cost of the entire program is $1,000 which covers all four courses and the final exam fee.

6. European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Part 66 Aircraft Maintenance Licence

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Part 66 Aircraft Maintenance Licence is a certification that allows the holder to perform maintenance and repair work on aircraft. It is issued by EASA, a regulatory body of the European Union responsible for civil aviation safety.

The licence is divided into two categories: Basic and Type. The Basic licence permits holders to carry out basic maintenance tasks such as servicing, inspections, repairs and replacements of parts. The Type licence allows holders to work on specific types of aircraft, such as helicopters or large commercial jets.

To obtain an EASA Part 66 Aircraft Maintenance Licence, applicants must first complete an approved training course in aircraft maintenance engineering. This typically takes between 18 months and 3 years depending on the type of licence being sought. Once the training is completed, applicants must pass an examination set by EASA which tests their knowledge and understanding of aircraft maintenance engineering principles and practices.

The cost of obtaining an EASA Part 66 Aircraft Maintenance Licence varies depending on the type of licence being sought, but can range from €5,000 to €20,000 or more.

Once an applicant has successfully obtained their licence they must renew it every 5 years in order to maintain its validity.

7. International Standards Organization (ISO) 9000 Quality Management System Certification

The International Standards Organization (ISO) 9000 Quality Management System Certification is an internationally recognized standard of quality management and assurance. It is a set of standards that outlines requirements for an organization’s quality management system, including processes and procedures to ensure the consistency and reliability of products and services. The ISO 9000 series of standards are designed to help organizations improve their performance in areas such as customer satisfaction, product safety, environmental protection, and continual improvement.

To obtain ISO 9000 certification, organizations must go through a rigorous assessment process conducted by an accredited certification body. This process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete depending on the size and complexity of the organization. Organizations must demonstrate that they have implemented a comprehensive quality management system that meets all the requirements outlined in the ISO 9000 series of standards.

Organizations can get started on the path towards ISO 9000 certification by first conducting an internal audit to assess their current level of compliance with the standards. They should then develop a plan for implementing any necessary changes or improvements before beginning the formal certification process. During this time, organizations may also seek out external consultants or training providers who can provide guidance and support throughout the entire process.

The cost of obtaining ISO 9000 certification will vary depending on factors such as the size and complexity of the organization, as well as any additional consulting or training services required. Generally speaking, it is not uncommon for organizations to spend anywhere from several thousand dollars up to tens of thousands in order to achieve certification.

8. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Master Mechanic Certification

The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Master Mechanic Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize automotive service professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in the automotive repair industry. The certification is earned by passing a series of tests that cover all aspects of automotive repair and maintenance.

In order to become an ASE Master Mechanic, an individual must pass eight tests covering various areas of expertise such as engine repair, automatic transmission/transaxle, manual drive train and axles, suspension and steering, brakes, electrical/electronic systems, heating and air conditioning systems, as well as engine performance. Each test consists of 50 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours. In addition to passing the tests, applicants must also demonstrate at least two years of practical experience in the field.

The cost for taking the ASE Master Mechanic Certification tests varies depending on the number of tests taken and the location where they are taken. Generally speaking, each test costs around $50-$60 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registration or retesting if necessary.

Overall it can take several months to complete all eight tests required for ASE Master Mechanic Certification depending on scheduling availability and other factors such as time needed to study for each test. Once all eight tests are passed successfully then an individual will receive their official ASE Master Mechanic Certificate.

9. Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA) Avionics Technician Certificate

The Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA) Avionics Technician Certificate is a certification program for avionics technicians. It is designed to provide a standardized level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of avionics and aircraft electronics. The AEA Avionics Technician Certificate is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of aircraft electronics.

In order to obtain the AEA Avionics Technician Certificate, individuals must complete a series of courses and exams. The courses cover topics such as basic electricity, electronic theory, aircraft systems, troubleshooting techniques, and installation procedures. After completing the coursework and passing the exams, applicants will receive their AEA Avionics Technician Certificate.

The AEA Avionics Technician Certificate program typically takes between six months to one year to complete depending on an individual’s schedule and availability. In order to get started with the program, applicants must first register with the Aircraft Electronics Association (AEA). Registration fees are $50 USD for members or $100 USD for non-members. After registering, applicants can purchase textbooks, study materials, and online classes from the AEA website or other authorized vendors.

The cost of obtaining the AEA Avionics Technician Certificate varies depending on which courses are taken and how many textbooks are purchased. Generally speaking, it is estimated that it will cost around $2,000 USD to complete all of the required coursework and exams necessary for obtaining this certificate.

10. National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Heavy Equipment Mechanic Certification

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Heavy Equipment Mechanic Certification is a certification program designed to certify individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and effectively maintain, diagnose, service, and repair heavy equipment. The NCCER Heavy Equipment Mechanic Certification is a nationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in the field of heavy equipment mechanics.

To get the NCCER Heavy Equipment Mechanic Certification, you must pass three exams: Core Curriculum, Advanced Level I, and Advanced Level II. The Core Curriculum covers topics such as safety practices, hand tools, hydraulics, electrical systems, engine systems, power trains, drive train components, and preventive maintenance. The Advanced Level I exam covers topics such as troubleshooting techniques, welding and cutting processes, air conditioning systems, brakes systems, steering systems and more. Finally the Advanced Level II exam covers topics such as machine shop operations and procedures; advanced troubleshooting techniques; computerized diagnostics; fuel injection systems; emission control systems; suspension systems; and more.

The cost of the NCCER Heavy Equipment Mechanic Certification varies depending on the number of exams taken. Each exam costs $150 plus any applicable taxes or fees. Additionally there may be additional costs associated with taking the exams such as study materials or registration fees.

The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on how quickly you can complete all three exams. Generally it takes between 8-12 months to complete all three exams if you are studying full time.

11. International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations (ICAPO) Certified Professional Pilot Program

The International Council of Aircraft Owner and Pilot Associations (ICAPO) Certified Professional Pilot Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide professional pilots with the highest level of safety, proficiency, and professionalism. The program is available to all professional pilots and consists of two parts: an online course and a practical flight assessment.

The online course is self-paced and covers topics such as aircraft systems, navigation, weather, aerodynamics, air traffic control procedures, emergency operations, human factors in aviation, and other areas related to safe piloting. The course takes approximately 40 hours to complete.

The practical flight assessment is conducted by an ICAPO-certified instructor who evaluates the pilot’s performance in various flight scenarios. The assessment includes preflight planning, takeoff/landing maneuvers, navigation exercises, instrument flying skills, communication with air traffic control personnel, emergency procedures training and more. The assessment typically takes two days to complete.

To obtain the ICAPO Certified Professional Pilot Program certification a pilot must successfully complete both the online course and the practical flight assessment. The cost of the program varies depending on the instructor's rate but typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Helicopter Mechanic Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their goals. For some, a helicopter mechanic certificate may be necessary for employment or advancement in the field. For others, it may not be necessary but could provide additional knowledge and skills that could help them succeed in their career.

If you are interested in becoming a professional helicopter mechanic, then yes, a certificate is likely necessary. In order to become certified as a helicopter mechanic, you must complete an approved course of study and pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) written exam. The FAA requires all applicants to have at least 18 months of experience working under the supervision of a certified aircraft maintenance technician before they can take the exam. After passing the exam, you will need to complete additional training and experience before you can receive your official certificate.

For those who are looking to work on helicopters but do not need certification, there are other options available such as online courses or apprenticeships with experienced mechanics. These types of programs can provide valuable knowledge and skills that can help you succeed in your career without needing to take the FAA exam or obtain a formal certificate.

At the end of the day, whether or not you need a helicopter mechanic certificate is up to you and your career goals. If certification is required for your job or desired job position, then it’s important to make sure that you fulfill all requirements for obtaining your certificate. However, if certification isn’t necessary for your current situation, consider other options such as online courses or apprenticeships which could still provide valuable knowledge and skills that could benefit your career path.

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FAQs About Helicopter Mechanic Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a certified helicopter mechanic?

Answer: The requirements vary by country, but typically include completing an approved course of study and passing a written exam to demonstrate knowledge of aircraft systems and components. In some countries, additional practical experience may be required.

2. Are there different levels of certification for helicopter mechanics?

Answer: Yes, most countries have different levels of certification based on experience and knowledge. The higher the level of certification, the more complex aircraft systems and components a mechanic can work on.

3. How do I maintain my certification as a helicopter mechanic?

Answer: Most countries require mechanics to complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their certification. These courses help ensure that mechanics stay up-to-date with new technologies and techniques in the industry.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a helicopter mechanic?

Answer: This depends on the individual's prior experience and training, but typically it takes several months or longer to become certified as a helicopter mechanic.

5. What is the cost associated with becoming certified as a helicopter mechanic?

Answer: Costs can vary depending on the type of training you choose, but typically they range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars for more comprehensive courses.