Aircraft Components and Systems Education and Training

Learn to repair different types of aircraft components and systems

By Terri Deno
The term "aircraft components" covers a broad swath of an aircraft's operating machinery. Common aircraft systems include electronics systems, landing systems, control systems and thrust systems. Each of these has a number of airplane components that need to work properly so that the system and the aircraft are functional during takeoff, flight and landing procedures.

While many aircraft avionics systems are complicated, there are plenty of training opportunities for those interested in working on any specific components of aircraft. You can find many aircraft components and systems education and training opportunities through:

1. College and vocational courses that teach aircraft maintenance and repair.

2. Specific training courses certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

3. Seminars that teach repair and maintenance techniques for components of airplane systems.

 

Learn to maintain airplane components through FAA certified programs

The majority of avionics maintenance technicians who work on commercial and private planes have gone through extensive training and safety courses. To get this training, you will need to enroll in a school that is certified by the FAA, which requires at least 1,900 classroom hours to complete a program in avionics.
Try: Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology is a FAA certified school that offers many courses through one of three aviation degree options. Virginia Aviation is another accredited school that provides complete maintenance and repair training with Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certified mechanics.

Take training courses that teach you to maintain and repair transport category aircraft systems

There are many vocational and university courses that teach the basics of aircraft maintenance and repair. You can get a broad education by studying all aircraft systems or you can specialize in one specific aircraft system, such as the oil or electronics systems.
Try: Jeppesen provides many avionics training solutions, including training materials and training programs available online and through in-person instruction. Global Avionics Training Specialists provides courses that teach specific skills, including retrofitting and working with digital control systems.

Attend seminars that provide information on aircraft avionics components

Aircraft avionics components are always changing as new technology becomes available. Seminars and workshops that cover installation, new technologies, and safety issues as they relate to aircraft maintenance and repair are all essential educational opportunities.
Try: The Washington Aviation Association offers a range of seminars for pilots, technicians and other aviation industry professionals. Education opportunities include credit towards pilot programs and recertification. The FAA Safety Team provides a host of seminars and events that cover safety topics for pilots and avionics technicians.

 

  • If you want to learn more about an aircraft electronic security system or water and waste system, find seminars and workshops that cover the type of plane you are interested in. These seminars will teach you basic and advanced techniques for repairing and maintaining aircraft components.