Choosing the Right Mechanic for Your Aircraft

We all know that taking care of the mechanical health of your aircraft is the first step in safety, but how do you know which type of aircraft mechanic should work on your aircraft? Here is an overview of the types of aviation mechanics, based on FAA Safety Report, the FAA’s publication on GA news and information.

Choosing the type of aircraft mechanic is usually related to the work your aircraft needs. But often, you won’t know until the problem is diagnosed.

In general, there are three types of aircraft maintenance mechanics: an airframe and engine (A&P) mechanic, an inspection authorization (IA)-approved mechanic, or an FAA-certified repair station. Here is an overview of who to go to and for what.

For general maintenance: Airframe and Engine Mechanic (A&P)

A&Ps, also known as aviation maintenance technicians, are typically called in for routine aircraft maintenance, such as examining engines, performing 100-hour inspections, replacing and repairing defective parts, repairing minor structural damage, and keeping corrosion under control.

To become a certified A&P aircraft mechanic (14 CFR part 65), an individual must be at least 18 years old, read, write, and speak English, and gain 18 months of practical experience toward airframe or engine certification, or 30 months of practical experience simultaneously for both the airframe and the engine.

Training can also be completed by attending a Part 147 accredited maintenance school. After training, the student must pass three tests (written, oral, and practical) to become certified.

For aircraft inspections: Mechanical Inspection Authorization (IA)

An IA is essentially an FAA licensed A&P mechanic with additional “inspection authority” endorsement issued on an FAA Form 8310-5 (IA card). As such, IAs are authorized to perform ongoing and annual aircraft inspections, in addition to a variety of maintenance and alterations that A&Ps do not authorize. The benefit of this is that you can do your repair work and sign the paperwork at the same time, saving time and money.

In addition to inspections, IAs can also sign an aircraft back into service after major repairs (Form 337), such as repair or replacement of major control surfaces, spars, airframe stiffening struts wing and tail, shaft replacements and major repairs. to the power plant.

To earn an IA designation, an A&P mechanic must undergo an additional three years of training (two active years), have available equipment and a fixed base of operations, pass a specific written inspection test, and meet the requirements of 14 CFR part 65.91.

For major repairs: Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul Station (MRO)

If your aircraft ever needs major repairs to complex components such as retractable landing gear assemblies, reciprocating and turbine engines, and auxiliary power units, a maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) station may be the smart move, too. known as repair station

A good repair station with experienced, certified mechanics will have the specialized equipment and clearances necessary for complex repairs such as avionics and electronics, mechanical actuators, fuel systems, and carburetors. Please note that different stations may specialize in areas of aircraft maintenance, but all must comply with the standards and policies set forth in 14 CFR part 145.

To obtain a repair station certification, the applicant must successfully complete a five-stage process: pre-application, formal application, document fulfillment, demonstration and inspection, and certification.

Reference:

http://www.faa.gov/news/safety_briefing/