Becoming a Licensed Aircraft Engineer: A Comprehensive Guide

The aviation industry is a rapidly growing field that offers a wide range of exciting and rewarding career opportunities. If you are interested in a career in aviation, becoming a licensed aircraft engineer (LAE) is a great option.

What is a Licensed Aircraft Engineer?

An LAE is a highly skilled professional who is responsible for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of aircraft. LAEs work on a variety of aircraft, including airplanes, helicopters, and drones. They are responsible for ensuring that aircraft are safe and airworthy, and they play a vital role in the safety of the aviation industry.

What are the Requirements to Become an LAE?

To become an LAE, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Complete an FAA-approved aircraft maintenance training program
• Pass the FAA airframe and powerplant (A&P) exams

How to Become an LAE

The first step to becoming an LAE is to complete an FAA-approved aircraft maintenance training program. These programs are typically offered at community colleges and technical schools. The programs typically take two years to complete and include both classroom and hands-on training.

Once you have completed an FAA-approved aircraft maintenance training program, you must pass the FAA A&P exams. These exams are challenging, but they are necessary to obtain your LAE license.

What are the Benefits of Becoming an LAE?

There are many benefits to becoming an LAE, including:

• High earning potential: LAEs earn a median salary of $64,290 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10% of earners make more than $100,000 per year.
• Job security: The aviation industry is growing rapidly, and there is a high demand for qualified LAEs. This means that LAEs have a high level of job security.
• Exciting and rewarding career: LAEs play a vital role in the safety of the aviation industry. They have the opportunity to work on a variety of aircraft and to travel the world.

What are the Challenges of Becoming an LAE?

There are some challenges to becoming an LAE, including:

• Difficult training program: The FAA-approved aircraft maintenance training program is challenging and requires a lot of hard work and dedication.
• FAA A&P exams: The FAA A&P exams are also challenging, and they require a lot of studying and preparation.
• Physical demands: LAEs often work in physically demanding conditions. They may have to lift heavy objects, work in confined spaces, and work in extreme weather conditions.

Is Becoming an LAE Right for You?

If you are interested in a career in aviation and you are willing to work hard to achieve your goals, then becoming an LAE may be the right choice for you. LAEs have a high earning potential, job security, and the opportunity to work on a variety of exciting and rewarding projects.

How to Get Started

If you are interested in becoming an LAE, the first step is to visit the FAA website at https://www.faa.gov/aircraft/air_cert/. The FAA website has a wealth of information about LAE training programs, the FAA A&P exams, and the LAE profession.

You can also find more information about LAE training programs by visiting the websites of community colleges and technical schools.

Additional Resources

• FAA Aircraft Maintenance Training Program Directory
• FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) Certificate
• Society of Automotive Engineers International (SAE International)

Conclusion

Becoming an LAE is a challenging but rewarding career path. If you are interested in a career in aviation and you are willing to work hard to achieve your goals, then becoming an LAE may be the right choice for you.

Tables

Table 1: LAE Salary Statistics

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Table 2: FAA-Approved Aircraft Maintenance Training Programs

Source: FAA Aircraft Maintenance Training Program Directory

Table 3: Pros and Cons of Becoming an LAE