The “flying machine” is a marvel of engineering that requires professionals who can provide high-quality maintenance and technical support regularly. The Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) programme trains technicians to keep aircraft safe and operational, with clear opportunities for career progression and attractive salary packages. This post highlights one of the essential yet often overlooked engineering specialities in aviation.
What is Aircraft Maintenance Engineering?
AME is a licensing programme provided by DGCA-approved institutions. This essential engineering course focuses on the maintenance of aircraft and its certification. After completing a professional programme in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, graduates are qualified to verify an aircraft’s airworthiness before each flight or after any type of minor or major repairs or maintenance. A closer look at BTech in Electrical Engineering can also help readers compare related tracks in engineering. It is a subset of Aerospace engineering. The course duration is 2 years and involves rigorous training programs.
Skill Set Required for pursuing AME
- Observational skills
- Solving Issues Ability
- Proactive approach
- Mastery of fundamental subjects
- Effective communication skills
- Ability to analyse
- Flexibility
- Interpersonal skills
Role of an aircraft maintenance engineer
- The primary role of such an engineer is to ensure the safety of assigned aircraft. Their job role includes inspecting, testing, and maintaining an aircraft.
- AMEs also need to maintain equipment in the company facilities.
- Taking safety measures while performing their work.
For readers exploring related maintenance careers, see How To Become A Diesel Mechanic? to understand broader maintenance pathways.
Best DGCA approved AME colleges in India
Indian Institute of Aircraft engineering is one the best DGCA-approved AME colleges in India started in 1998 with India’s ministry of civil aviation approval. IIAE has more than 20 years of expertise in maintenance training. To train skilled and knowledgeable aircraft maintenance workers, they have world-class facilities, highly qualified faculty, and dedicated staff. Their goal is to develop knowledgeable, capable individuals who will play a significant role in the aviation sector in the future. For related engineering programs, see A closer look at BTech in Electrical Engineering.
Aircraft engineering is one of the most in-demand courses due to its many advantages and importance for the airline industry. To learn more about the course of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, keep reading.
About AME course
This institute offers an undergraduate AME programme and is divided into the Mechanical and Avionics Stream specialities. This 4-year programme is split into two sections:
- The CAR-147 (BASIC) academic programme lasts for two years.
- The two-year practical maintenance programme is for flying aircraft.
- Over the course of two years, the curriculum is divided into four semesters and provides 2400 hours of academic and practical instruction for both the B1.1 and B2 streams.
It takes a lot of effort and commitment to succeed in the tough and rewarding field of AME. A deeper dive into avionics and electronic systems is also covered in related guides such as our avionics evolution piece.
Eligibility criteria required for the AME Entrance exam
To get yourself enrolled in IIAE, Dwarka, Delhi you need to qualify for the All India AME entrance examination (AIAEE). And to appear in the exam, there are eligibility criteria you have to match-
- Applicants who have passed the 10+ 2 board exam with PCM or have completed a three years diploma in engineering course in any of the streams.
- Age limit- 16-23 years.
- No physical disability.
Admission Process
The following criteria are used to choose candidates for IIAE:
- Once you meet the eligibility criteria, get yourself registered by submitting an application form with a fee of 1260 Rs. Online.
- You have to appear for the AIAEE exam online. You can choose the examination date according to your preference.
- The entrance exam results will be made available on the IIAE’s official website.
- Eligible Students will be notified via their registered email.
What you will learn in the AME course includes adherence to the DGCA’s standards for civil aviation, governing rules, regulations, fault diagnostics, standard maintenance, and repairs. Additionally, you’ll learn emergency techniques and safety requirements. Finally, you’ll understand the fundamentals of contemporary aircraft design and production.
Avionics and related systems form a core part of the learning track, aligning with our broader guide on avionic equipment evolution.
Scope of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering in India
Civil aviation is currently the fastest-growing industry in India. It has already become the world’s third-largest domestic aviation market and is expected to grow in the coming years. Since the UDAN scheme was launched in 2017, regional connectivity has increased, boosting demand for skilled AMEs. The need for qualified AMEs is rising both in India and abroad, with a shortage of skilled professionals in many regions.
A licensed aircraft maintenance engineer can work in sectors like defence, aviation, travelling airlines, flying clubs, etc.
Airlines Recruiters (National & International)
- Go Air
- Indigo
- Jet Airways
- SpiceJet
- Vistara
- Air Deccan
- Titan Aviation
- Etihad Airways
- Japan Airlines
- Korean Air
- Singapore Airlines
- And many more
AME salary in India
Compared with many other engineering fields, AMEs in India command competitive salaries that reflect the high precision and responsibility involved in passenger safety. Entry-level AMEs typically earn around 8.2 LPA per year, with experienced professionals earning higher packages, often reaching 12 LPA or more depending on the employer and location. The numbers can vary based on qualification, experience, and the company.
Individuals’ salary varies with their qualification, experience, expertise, and companies.
Placement at IIAE
Among all the best AME Colleges in Delhi, IIAE has the best placement rate. IIAE believes in transforming aspirations into reality. They not only train students to perform their best in their future job but also help them to find one. A dedicated placement cell is established which organises events like an interview, personality development sessions, and workshops for the students.
Indigo, Go Air, Qatar Airways, Blue Dart Aviation, and BSF are some of the top recruiters of IIAE.
90% of the students have placed in IIAE every year and the average package in IIAE is 12 LPA.
Conclusion
With this overview, you should now understand the numerous facets and scope of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering and why it remains a popular option for many engineering students. To pursue a fruitful career in the aviation industry, an AME course from IIAE, Delhi, is a strong option. If you’re exploring related engineering paths, consider reading How to Become a Electrical Engineer.
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