Introduction
The aviation industry is a dynamic and complex environment where aircraft engineers play a vital role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of aircraft. These engineers are responsible for maintaining the intricate systems that allow aircraft to operate efficiently and safely.
The maintenance tasks are carried out by two distinct trades: mechanical engineers and avionics engineers. While both are crucial to aircraft maintenance and operation, they focus on different systems and require separate training paths.
This article explores the differences between the career paths of mechanical and avionic aircraft engineers. By comparing their responsibilities, training routes, certifications, and career opportunities, this guide will help aspiring engineers determine which path best suits their interests and skills.
Mechanical aircraft engineers: role and responsibilities
Mechanical aircraft engineers focus primarily on the physical systems and structures of an aircraft. Their responsibilities include maintaining, inspecting, and repairing mechanical components such as engines, airframes, landing gear, and hydraulic systems. These engineers ensure that the aircraft’s structural integrity is upheld and that all mechanical systems operate smoothly.
Their daily tasks involve troubleshooting and repairing faulty systems, performing routine inspections of aircraft structures, and replacing or repairing mechanical components when necessary. Mechanical engineers play a critical role in both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance, as well as emergency repairs.
Core skills
Mechanical engineers must possess a solid understanding of physics and mechanical systems. Strong problem-solving skills are essential to diagnose and resolve mechanical faults, alongside a comprehensive knowledge of aircraft structures and powerplants. Proficiency in using tools for mechanical maintenance, as well as the ability to read technical manuals and engineering drawings, is also crucial.
Avionic aircraft engineers: role and responsibilities
Avionic engineers specialise in the electrical and electronic systems of an aircraft, which include critical systems such as navigation, communication, radar, and flight control systems (particularly autopilot). They ensure that all electronic systems function properly, which is vital for the safe operation of the aircraft.
Their duties include installing, testing, diagnosing, and repairing avionic equipment such as radar, GPS systems, radios, and autopilot systems. During routine maintenance or when issues arise, avionics engineers use diagnostic tools and troubleshooting techniques to resolve any failures in the aircraft's electronic systems.
Core skills
Avionic engineers must have a deep understanding of electrical systems, specialised testing equipment, and electronics. Their work requires precision and attention to detail, as even minor malfunctions in avionics systems can compromise an aircraft's safety. They must also possess strong problem-solving skills and a thorough understanding of the various communication and navigation technologies used in modern aircraft.
An avionic engineer typically spends a significant amount of time studying wiring and schematic diagrams to understand how systems are interconnected, allowing them to pinpoint faults. Although mechanical engineers can and may occasionally be involved in these tasks, it is primarily the responsibility of the avionic team.
Mechanical engineer training and certification
Educational requirements
To become a mechanical aircraft engineer, individuals typically start with a strong foundation in secondary school, focusing on subjects such as mathematics, physics, and engineering principles. This academic background is crucial for pursuing higher education in aerospace or mechanical engineering.
Licensing and certification
While it is possible to work on live aircraft as a mechanic or avionics engineer after completing basic training, certification is required to authorise any work. This is like how an accountant must achieve chartered status before filing accounts.
After completing their academic education, mechanical engineers can obtain certifications such as EASA Part-66 (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) or CAA (Civil Aviation Authority), which are essential to certify work on aircraft. In Europe, a Category B1 licence is required for engineers working with mechanical systems, including engines, airframes, and landing gear. Obtaining this certification involves passing written exams and gaining hands-on experience.
On-the-job training and apprenticeships
Mechanical engineers often enter the workforce through apprenticeships, which combine practical experience with classroom instruction. These apprenticeships typically last between three to four years, during which trainees work under the guidance of experienced engineers. They gain hands-on experience working with engines, airframes, and mechanical systems.
Alternatively, one can pursue a Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) in aerospace, mechanical, or aviation engineering. These degree programmes cover subjects such as fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, structural analysis, materials science, and powerplant systems. Some universities also offer specialised programmes in aviation or aerospace engineering, tailored to aircraft maintenance.
Avionic engineer training and certification
Educational requirements
Like mechanical engineers, aspiring avionics engineers need a strong foundation in mathematics and physics during secondary school. This will lay the foundations for them to be able to grasp the complexities of their basic training, whether it’s through an apprenticeship or higher education.
Licensing and certification
Avionics engineers can obtain the EASA Part-66 Category B2 licence or the equivalent from the CAA to certify work on avionics systems. Category B2 engineers are specifically trained to work on electrical systems and avionics equipment. Like the mechanical licence, obtaining this certification involves a similar process, but the exams focus on different topics.
On-the-job training and apprenticeships
Most avionics engineers begin their careers through apprenticeship programmes, which provide hands-on experience in avionics maintenance. Trainees work on systems such as communication radios, GPS systems and autopilot systems, applying their theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
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We've not gone into a great level of detail for pre-requesites to become an aircraft engineer here as it's all been covered in more depth in this article.
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Type of work after qualification
Mechanical engineers
Once qualified, mechanical engineers are responsible for performing routine maintenance checks, inspecting, and repairing mechanical systems on aircraft. This includes engine work, airframe inspections, and diagnosing mechanical failures. They may work in maintenance hangars, repair stations, component workshops, or directly with airlines, ensuring aircraft are maintained to the highest safety standards.
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Avionic engineers
Qualified avionic engineers focus on testing, troubleshooting, and repairing avionics systems such as navigation systems, radar units, and autopilot mechanisms. They may work in maintenance hangars, component workshops, with airlines, or in specialised avionics departments. Their work is crucial for the smooth operation of modern aircraft, which rely heavily on sophisticated electronic systems.
Avionic engineers are also typically involved in large modifications, such as wiring new systems into aircraft. A notable example of this is the ongoing introduction of the Starlink system for in-air Wi-Fi.
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A day in the life of an aircraft engineer
An aircraft engineer’s day begins by reviewing the maintenance schedule and any issues reported by the flight crew or previous shifts. After gathering the necessary tools and equipment, the engineer heads to the aircraft to begin inspection or repairs.
For mechanical engineers, the focus is on the aircraft’s physical systems. They start the day by speaking with the engineer leading the check, who outlines the priorities—whether it’s inspections, repairs, defect rectification, or operational checks. These tasks are grouped into the stages of an aircraft maintenance input: de-panel, inspection, repair/modifications, rebuid and operational testing.
Avionic engineers typically meet in the avionic workshop, where they allocate jobs on various aircraft throughout the shift. The avionic teams work on multiple aircraft during the repairs/operation check phases. After discussing the day’s priorities, they either begin carrying out necessary modifications or testing inoperative avionic systems, which could involve critical components such as navigation, communication, or flight control systems, ensuring everything operates correctly.
Despite these differences, both mechanical and avionic engineers follow similar processes: performing routine inspections, adhering to safety protocols, and documenting their findings. At the end of the day, both types of engineers sign off on the work completed, ensuring that the aircraft’s condition aligns with maintenance records. If all tasks are completed, the engineer carries out a release-to-service, certifying the aircraft as fit for flight.
Work environment
A key difference between the two trades is that a mechanical engineer is usually assigned to a specific aircraft and will see through its entire maintenance check from start to finish. In contrast, an avionic engineer typically works from an avionic workshop, managing multiple projects simultaneously. For example, they might handle a software update on the aircraft in Bay 1, replace an antenna in Bay 2, and perform fibre optic cable testing in Bay 3. This is why it is generally the mechanical trade that takes charge of running the aircraft check.
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Which career path is right for you?
When choosing between mechanical and avionic engineering, consider your strengths and interests. If you enjoy working with mechanical systems and have an interest in the physical structure of aircraft, the mechanical engineering path may be for you. Conversely, if you are fascinated by electronics and enjoy working with advanced communication, navigation, and control systems, avionics engineering might be a better fit.
Both fields offer exciting career opportunities, with ample room for growth, specialisation, and advancement. The decision ultimately depends on whether you prefer working with mechanical systems or the electronics that power modern aviation.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, both mechanical and avionic engineers are the backbone of the aviation industry, ensuring that aircraft are safe, efficient, and reliable. The two career paths differ significantly in focus, training, and types of work, but both offer rewarding opportunities for growth and specialisation. By considering your skills and interests, you can make an informed decision about which career path is best suited to your aspirations in aviation.
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