Aircraft Maintenance Engineer career guide
Aircraft Maintenance Engineers inspect, repair and certify aircraft to ensure they are safe and airworthy.
Career guide reviewed by Certyz · October 2026
Entry routes vary by employer and role. Compare the options below before deciding what to research next.
What does an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer do?
Aircraft Maintenance Engineers inspect, repair and certify aircraft to ensure they are safe and airworthy.
- Aircraft hangars
- Airports
- Maintenance facilities
- Airlines
- Aircraft manufacturers
- MRO providers
- Royal Air Force
How to become an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
Licensed engineers are legally authorised to certify aircraft as fit to return to service.
Engineering apprenticeship or degree leading towards CAA Part-66 Aircraft Maintenance Licence.
CAA Part-66 Aircraft Maintenance Licence
- Degree apprenticeship
- Apprenticeship
- University
- College
- Direct employment or training
Skills and progression for Aircraft Maintenance Engineer
- Technical knowledge
- Attention to detail
- Problem solving
- Manual dexterity
- Health and safety
- Licensed Engineer
- Senior Engineer
- Maintenance Manager
- Engineering Director
- Technical Director
Check current entry requirements before deciding
This Certyz guide is a starting point. Qualifications, registration rules and apprenticeship availability can change. Confirm the latest requirements with employers, course providers, relevant professional bodies and official careers guidance.
What could the outlook mean for you?
Career opportunities can look different depending on where you live, your preferred route and the subjects and activities you enjoy. Your report brings those factors together rather than giving you a generic answer.
- Regional vacancy and salary intelligence
- Your personal career-match reasoning
- Opportunity strength and market direction
- Alternative careers worth considering