Airframe Mechanic
What is the airframe mechanic rating?
The FAA Airframe mechanic rating certifies a technician to perform and return to service minor repairs, alterations and inspections of the airframe and associated components. Once you hold this certification you will have it for life unless surrendered, suspended, or revoked.
What can you do with it?
With this rating you will be authorized to perform and return to service minor repairs, alterations, and 100 hour inspections of the following; structural components, landing gear, flight control systems, electrical systems etc. You may also perform major repairs or alterations to the airframe but you may not return it to service. If you hold an airframe rating you are also authorized to supervise the performance of minor repairs and alterations but you cannot supervise inspections.
What can’t you do with it?
Holding the airframe rating alone will not allow you to supervise or return to service major repairs or alterations. In order to return a major repair or alteration to service you must have an inspection authorization IA. (IA link) You will also not be allowed to perform maintenance or alterations on engines and propellers without the supervision of a certificated powerplant mechanic. Airframe mechanics may not perform repairs on instruments unless working under the authority of an FAA approved instrument repair station.
What is the certification process?
For this rating you will need to meet the following requirements: FAA Mechanic Info
- You must be at least 18 years old
- You must be able to read, write, speak, and understand english
- You must have at least 18 months of experience working with airframe repair or alterations under an appropriately rated mechanic / or complete an FAA-approved school program that provides training and experience FAA Training Facility Locator
- For any mechanic rating you must pass the general mechanic exams before the rating specific exams, in this case the airframe mechanic exams.
Get your authorization to test:
- Before you can take the test you will need to make an appointment with and visit your local flight standards district office FSDO. FAA FSDO Locator
- With your local FSDO you will complete FAA form 8610-2
Take written exams:
The airframe written exam is a 100 question multiple choice knowledge based exam that must be passed with a score of 70% or higher. You will have 2.5 hours to complete this exam. You can prepare for the written exam utilizing books, prep ware, and videos linked below. (study links) View the link below for more detailed information about written exams.
Take oral and practical exams:
The oral exam is a verbal session of question and answer between the examiner and the applicant that requires the applicant to provide answers without the use of reference documentation. The practical application examination is a hands-on skills evaluation to ensure applicant proficiency. These exams are typically conducted by the examiner simultaneously. To prepare for your oral and practical exams continue to the links provided below.
View the primary FAA approved publications associated with airframe maintenance:
Proceed to your next rating!