Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) Course Details: Eligibility, Duration, Fees & Career Scope

The Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) course prepares students for technical work in aircraft inspection, maintenance and repair. AME Course combines classroom and theoritical learning with practical training in mechanical or electrical and avionics systems.This course prepares individuals for practical work on airplane and provides deep understanding for aircraft maintenance, safety standards, repair procedures and international aviation regulations. Explore the AME eligibility, syllabus and duration sections, or check the admission process for admission through AME CET at participating institutes.

AME Course is a DGCA-approved basic training which follows CAR-147 requirements and covers aircraft systems, maintenance practices and aviation regulations. AME B1.1 and AME B2 basic training each require at least 2,400 hours. Students learn to use maintenance manuals, inspect components and follow safe working procedures. Completing the course does not automatically grant an AME licence. Candidates must also meet the applicable CAR-66 examination and maintenance experience requirements before obtaining an AME licence. [1][2]

AME Course at a Glance

What Is Aircraft Maintenance Engineering?

Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) focuses on inspection, maintenance, repair and fault-finding in airplanes to keep them safe and fit to fly . It includes hands on work on aircraft structures, engines, mechanical systems, electrical systems and avionics.

Aircraft Maintenance work can include checking an engine for damage, investigating a hydraulic leak or testing navigation equipment. Aircraft Maintenance Engineers follow approved maintenance instructions and record the work completed. A licensed AME can certify maintenance only within the scope of their licence, aircraft ratings and required authorisation. [1]

AME training prepares students to understand aircraft systems, use tools and test equipment, read technical manuals and follow safe working procedures. These practical skills provide a foundation for work in aircraft maintenance teams. Students must also meet the applicable examination and experience requirements to obtain an AME licence.

What Does an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Do?

An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer is responsible to check aircraft, investigate faults and carries out maintenance using approved instructions. Daily tasks depends on the aircraft, licence category and assigned responsibilities.

• Inspection: Check tyres, brakes, aircraft surfaces and engine components for wear, damage or leaks.
• Maintenance: Replace worn parts, lubricate components and carry out scheduled servicing.
• Troubleshooting: Find the cause of problems, such as a hydraulic leak or a faulty navigation system, using manuals and test equipment.
• Testing: Check that repaired or replaced components work correctly before completing the task.
• Documentation: Record the work performed, parts replaced and test results in maintenance records.
• Certification: Issue a certificate of release to service for eligible maintenance within the scope of the engineer’s licence, aircraft ratings and required authorisation. [1]

For example, replacing a worn brake involves more than fitting a new part. The maintenance team follows the specified procedure, performs the required checks and records the work before authorised certification.

Is AME a Degree or a Licence-Based Career?

AME is a licence-based career. AME training and a university degree serve different purposes such as:

• AME training and licence: AME is a CAR-147 approved course that provides aircraft maintenance knowledge and practical skills. Completing it does not automatically grant an AME licence. DGCA issues the licence after candidates meet the applicable CAR-66 requirements, including successfully compelting DGCA examinations and practical maintenance experience. Certification privileges depend on the licence category, aircraft ratings and required authorisation. [1]
• Academic qualification: A B.Sc. or B.Tech is a university degree. If offered alongside AME training, it remains a separate qualification. A degree alone does not grant an AME licence or authorise aircraft maintenance certification. Degree holders can pursue licensing by meeting the applicable DGCA requirements. [1]

for example: Aeronautical engineering focuses mainly on aircraft design, development and engineering analysis. AME focuses on aircraft maintenance and serviceability. An aeronautical engineering degree alone does not authorise its holder to certify aircraft maintenance.

DGCA Approval and AME Licensing Requirements

If you want to build a career in aircraft maintenance, it helps to understand who approves your training and who issues your licence. In India, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) oversees both, through separate requirements.

CAR-147 (Basic) sets the standards for approved training institutes. These cover instructors, facilities, examinations and practical training. Before choosing an institute, check that its approval covers the category you want to study, such as B1.1 or B2. This helps you select training that matches your career interests. It is important to check CAR-147 approval before taking admission in any institute.[2]

CAR-66 explains what you must achieve to obtain an AME licence. Your training builds the foundation, while the applicable knowledge examinations and maintenance experience help you qualify for licensing. Completing an approved course is an important step, but it does not automatically give you a licence. [1]

What Is CAR-147 Basic Training Approval?

CAR-147 (Basic) approval allows an institute to provide DGCA-approved aircraft maintenance basic training within its approved scope. Choosing an institute approved for your intended category helps you build the knowledge and practical skills needed for your AME career. [2]

What Does the Approval Cover?

• Instructors: Qualified personnel for teaching, examinations and practical assessments.

• Facilities: Suitable classrooms, workshops, tools and access to relevant aircraft or components.

• Training: Theoretical and practical instruction for specified categories, such as B1.1 or B2.

• Assessments: Procedures for checking students’ knowledge and practical skills. [2]

What Certificate Do You Receive?

After successfully completing the approved basic course and its required examinations and practical assessments, you receive the applicable Certificate of Recognition (CoR). This records your approved training achievement; it is not an AME licence. [2]

How Does This Training Help You Obtain a Licence?

Successful completion of the applicable approved basic course allows candidates in B1.1, B1.3 and B2 to qualify under the two-year practical maintenance experience requirement in CAR-66. That experience must meet DGCA requirements and involve operating aircraft. [1]

You must also satisfy the applicable knowledge examinations and other licensing conditions. Your training certificate, examination results and experience records support your application to DGCA.

What Is CAR-66?

CAR-66 is the DGCA regulation that sets the requirements for an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer’s licence in India. For students, it explains what you need to learn, which examinations apply and what maintenance experience you need before obtaining a licence. [1]

What Does CAR-66 Cover?

• Licence eligibility: The educational and age requirements for applicants.

• Knowledge and examinations: The subjects, knowledge levels and module examinations required for each licence category.

• Maintenance experience: The amount and type of practical experience required, depending on your category and previous training.

• Certification privileges: The maintenance you may certify within your licence category, aircraft ratings and required authorisation. [1]

Why Should Students Understand It?

Your chosen category affects both your studies and future responsibilities. For example, B1.1 covers maintenance of turbine-powered aeroplanes within its mechanical and electrical scope, while B2 focuses on electrical and avionics systems.

Understanding CAR-66 helps you plan beyond course admission. Approved training, knowledge examinations and qualifying experience are parts of the licensing process. A licence also has defined limits—it does not allow you to certify maintenance on every aircraft.

AME Course Categories and Streams

AME training offers different options based on the aircraft and systems you want to maintain. Your chosen licence category helps determine your subjects, required experience and future certification responsibilities. [1] AME Course is divided into categories based on their nature of work and field of maintenance, some of the major AME categories are given below such as:

B1: Mechanical

If you enjoy understanding how engines work and how aircraft parts fit together, B1 Mechanical may suit your interests. You study aircraft structures, engines, mechanical and electrical systems. Practical learning helps you understand tasks such as inspecting engine components, checking landing gear and finding hydraulic leaks.

Your choice within B1 depends on whether you want to work on aeroplanes or helicopters, and the type of engine they use:

For example, if jet and turboprop aeroplanes interest you, explore B1.1. If you prefer helicopters, compare B1.3 and B1.4.

AME B1 also includes limited avionics work involving simple tests that do not require troubleshooting. Your eventual certification privileges depend on your licence, aircraft ratings and required authorisation. [1]

B2: Avionics

If you enjoy electrical circuits, electronics and finding how systems work, B2 Avionics may suit your interests. You learn about the electrical and avionics systems that help pilots receive flight information, communicate and navigate. [1]

During training, you learn to read wiring diagrams, use test equipment and investigate faults. For example, if a radio stops working, maintenance may involve checking its power supply, wiring and connections before identifying the faulty component.

B2 involves practical work as well as electronics knowledge. Your eventual certification privileges depend on your licence, aircraft ratings and required authorisation. [1]

Other AME Licence Categories

Alongside B1 and B2, CAR-66 includes categories for other aircraft and maintenance responsibilities. Understanding these options can help you explore the type of work that interests you.

These categories are not automatic promotion levels. Each has its own qualification requirements and certification limits. For example, Category C does not simply mean becoming the manager of B1 and B2 engineers. [1]

Explore our AME licence categories guide for a detailed comparison.

How to Choose Between Mechanical and Avionics

Start with the type of work you would enjoy learning. Would you prefer inspecting an engine component or tracing why an aircraft instrument is not working?

• Consider B1 Mechanical if engines, aircraft structures and moving parts interest you. You will study systems such as landing gear, hydraulics and fuel systems, along with electrical systems.
• Consider B2 Avionics if you enjoy circuits, electronics and working through wiring diagrams. You will study electrical systems, instruments, communication and navigation equipment. [1]

Both streams involve practical work and fault-finding. You do not need existing aircraft maintenance skills before starting. Compare sample lessons or workshop demonstrations to see which subjects hold your interest. Neither stream guarantees a higher salary or an easier career. Check the institute’s approved category, practical facilities and experience arrangements. Speak with AME CET counsellors for help comparing your options.

For a closer comparison, read our guide: How to Choose Between AME B1.1 and B2.

AME Course Eligibility Criteria

Candidates can pursue AME basic training after completing their school education in science or an accepted equivalent qualification. The main educational requirements to take admission in AME basic training course are given below such as :

• Educational qualification: Candidates must Pass 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics from a recognised board, or hold an accepted equivalent qualification.
• Engineering diploma: A diploma recognised by a state technical education board, with Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics studied as subjects, may qualify as equivalent. The required equivalence certificate must be provided. [1]
• Minimum marks: Minimum marks depend on the selected programme’s admission and institute requirements.
• Age: Course admission and licence application are separate. AME CET’s published 2027 admission conditions specify 16–28 years, together with the required educational qualification. The minimum age to apply for a DGCA AME licence is 18 years; the applicable examinations and maintenance experience are also required. [1][3]
• Medical documentation: Medical fitness and colour vision documentation depend on the selected programme’s published admission requirements. AME CET counsellors can explain the documents needed; a medical professional assesses fitness.

AME Course Duration and Training Hours

The AME Course duration depends on your chosen AME category and the institute’s approved schedule. AME Course duration includes classroom learning, practical training, examinations and assessments. Course Duration: 2 to 3 Years, depending on the Programme (2,000 to 2,400 Training Hours)

The calendar range describes programme schedules, not a fixed DGCA duration in years. The selected institute’s approved schedule determines your completion period. However, institutes offered by AME CET have different calendar duration course such 2 or 3 years depending upon their approved schedule.

Category-Wise AME Basic Training Hours

These are the minimum basic training hours required to complete the AME Course for the categories listed above. Candidates must complete the prescribed training hours as per DGCA applicable standards and requirements. [2]

Why AME Programme Duration Can Differ?

An institute organises the required training hours within its approved course schedule. Therefore, the total calendar duration of an AME programme may differ between training organisations, even when the applicable training requirements are the same. Students should check the approved course structure and schedule of the selected training organisation before taking admission. The calendar duration depends on:

• Training timetable: Daily and weekly classroom and practical hours.
• Practical arrangements: Workshop sessions and training in an actual maintenance environment.
• Examinations and holidays: Time allocated for assessments and scheduled breaks.

This is why programmes with the same required training hours may run over two or three years.

AME Course Theoritical and Practical Training

AME training combines both theoretical knowledge with practical training so that students understand both aircraft systems and the maintenance procedures used in an aviation environment. The balance between theory and practical learning is structured according to the applicable AME training category and approved training programme. For the B1 and B2 categories above, 50–60% of training is theoretical, with the remaining 40–50% allocated to practical training. [2]

• Theoritical training: Explains how aircraft systems work, along with maintenance procedures, safety practices and aviation regulations.
• Practical training: Learn to use tools, read maintenance manuals, inspect components and carry out supervised tasks.

For example, a 2,400-hour course using a 60:40 split includes 1,440 hours of theory and 960 hours of practical training.

AME Course Completion and Licensing Experience

The two-to-three-year course duration refers to basic AME training and should not be treated as the complete timeline for obtaining an AME licence. After completing the applicable approved basic training, candidates must also meet the qualifying maintenance experience requirements applicable to their licence category. For B1.1, B1.3 and B2, candidates who successfully complete the applicable approved basic course must also meet the two-year qualifying maintenance experience requirement. [1]

• 2-year course + 2 years of qualifying experience = 4 years.
• 3-year course + 2 years of qualifying experience = 5 years.

Qualifying experience may be interspersed with training where permitted. Course practical hours do not automatically count towards it, and licensing also requires the applicable examinations and other conditions. [1]

AME Course Syllabus and Modules

The AME syllabus covers aircraft systems, maintenance practices, safety and technical skills. B1 and B2 students study common foundation modules, followed by specialist modules for their chosen category. The required knowledge level can differ even when the module title is the same. [1]

Common and Category-Specific AME Modules

AME syllabus is structured according to different AME licence categories and subcategories. Some AME modules provides necessary fundamental knowledge for AME pathways, while some modules focus on related technical areas of particular category. So, it is necessary for students to check their applicable syllabus according to their selected B1 or B2 category and shouldn't assume that depth and content of every module is same.

The table shows which modules apply to each category. Some subjects are common, while others are category-specific:

✓ Applicable — Not applicable. Module applicability follows CAR-66 Issue III, Revision 2, dated 29 September 2025. Modules 1 and 2 are marked N/A in its applicability matrix and reserved in the detailed syllabus. [1]

“N/A” means not applicable in this module table. It does not remove the Physics and Mathematics requirements associated with entry qualifications. The required knowledge level for applicable modules can differ between B1 and B2.

Practical training helps you connect these subjects with tasks such as inspecting components, reading wiring diagrams and using test equipment. See our AME Course Syllabus page for detailed topics and category-wise knowledge requirements.

Practical Training and Maintenance Experience

During an AME course, student develop practical maintenance skills. To get an AME license candidates must meet the DGCA eductaional and maintenance experience  requirements. These two requirements serve different purposes and should not be treated as the same type of practical exposure. Practical training of the course is a part of approved training programme, while maintenance experience is necessary for licensing and related to required practical experience. Understanding this difference helps students plan their AME training and licensing pathway correctly. These serve different purposes.

What Will You Do During Practical Training?

Depending on your category and the approved training programme, you may:

• Inspect aircraft components for wear or damage.
• Practise removing, installing and checking components.
• Test electrical circuits and use measuring equipment.
• Follow maintenance manuals and safety procedures.
• Record completed tasks and undergo practical assessments.

Under CAR-147 Basic, at least 30% of the practical training portion must take place in an actual maintenance working environment. This is 30% of practical training—not 30% of the whole course. [2]

How Much Maintenance Experience Is Required?

After successfully completing the relevant CAR-147 approved basic training, the CAR-66 basic experience requirement is: [1]

The experience must involve operating aircraft and meet the applicable task coverage, documentation and recency requirements. Course practical hours do not automatically count towards this experience. Qualifying experience may be gained during the training period if it meets CAR-66 conditions. [1]

AME Examinations and the DGCA Licence

The AME licensing pathway involves several stages after basic training is completed. Training, examinations and maintenance experience work together to establish the knowledge and practical experience required for licensing. Candidates should understand each stage clearly so they can plan their training and licence application accordingly.

Enrolling in an AME course is the first step. Completing the course alone does not give you a DGCA AME licence. You must also pass the applicable examinations and gain the required maintenance experience. [1]

1. Complete approved basic training: Finish the course requirements, including practical training and assessments, to receive the relevant Certificate of Recognition. [2]
2. Pass the applicable modules: Clear the CAR-66 knowledge examinations for your chosen licence category. You can prepare for and take these examinations during your course.
3. Gain maintenance experience: Complete and document qualifying work on operating aircraft. For B1.1, B1.3 and B2, the approved basic training route requires two years of qualifying maintenance experience. [1]
4. Apply to DGCA: Submit your application with the required examination, training and experience records. DGCA issues the licence after verifying that you meet the applicable requirements.
5. Meet aircraft certification requirements: To certify maintenance on a particular aircraft, you must hold the applicable ratings and meet the relevant experience and authorisation conditions. [1]

AME Course Fees and Scholarships

Indicative AME course tuition fees: ₹4 lakh to ₹8 lakh. The amount varies by institute, category and training programme. Airline or MRO practical training and living expenses may be charged separately.

AME Course Fee Breakdown

These are indicative ranges supplied by AME CET for this guide. Obtain the batch-specific fee breakdown, including instalment dates and refund terms, before admission. Confirm whether MRO training is already included to avoid counting it twice.

Approximate course budget: ₹6 lakh–₹10 lakh. This is an AME CET planning estimate, not a fixed fee. The total depends on tuition, separately charged practical training and other institute charges. Hostel and food may cost extra. Use the institute’s written fee breakdown to calculate your final amount.

Scholarships Through AME CET

AME CET 2027 offers scholarships of up to 100% of first-semester tuition fees, subject to rank, award limits and scholarship conditions. The maximum published award is ₹2 lakh. Scholarships apply after admission through AME CET counselling. [3]

The scholarship covers eligible first-semester tuition fees. It does not cover the entire course fee, hostel expenses or separately charged MRO training.

Speak with AME CET counsellors to understand your scholarship eligibility and the fees payable at participating institutes.

AME Admission Process Through AME CET

AME CET provides an admission route to AME courses at participating institutes. Your institute and category options depend on your All India Rank (AIR), eligibility, preferences and seat availability. [3]

1. Check your eligibility: Meet the educational requirements for your chosen AME programme and the applicable AME CET conditions.
2. Apply for AME CET: Complete the application at amecet.in, enter your details accurately and pay the examination fee.
3. Take the examination: Appear for AME CET according to the instructions on your admit card. Your result and AIR help determine your counselling options.
4. Attend counselling: Compare participating institutes, approved categories, training arrangements and fees. Select your preferences with guidance from AME CET counsellors.
5. Complete document verification: Submit the required educational certificates, identity documents and other admission records. Admission depends on successful verification and meeting the programme’s requirements.
6. Confirm your admission: Follow the seat-allotment instructions, pay the required admission fees and complete enrolment at the allotted institute. Obtain written confirmation of your category, fee breakdown and applicable scholarship.

Admission through AME CET is available at participating institutes. The selected institute provides the training under its own DGCA approval. AME CET supports the entrance examination, counselling and admission process; DGCA separately governs AME licensing.

AME Career Scope and Job Opportunities

AME training prepares you for aircraft maintenance work with airlines, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) organisations and specialist workshops. Your job options depend on your training category, practical skills, experience and the employer’s requirements.

Where Can You Work?

These are established maintenance activities. For example, AIESL lists line maintenance, base maintenance, engine overhaul and avionics and component workshops among its services. [4]

What Jobs Can You Apply For After Training?

You may apply for trainee aircraft technician, apprenticeship or maintenance support positions, depending on the vacancy’s eligibility conditions. Some technician posts require previous maintenance experience.

At this stage, you build practical skills and work within the organisation’s supervision procedures. Completing an AME course does not automatically make you a licensed certifying engineer.

How Can Your Career Progress?

After meeting the applicable DGCA examination, experience and licensing requirements, you can pursue licensed AME roles. Certification responsibilities depend on your licence category, aircraft ratings and organisation authorisation. [1]

With further experience and suitable qualifications, you may also move into:

• Maintenance planning: Scheduling maintenance tasks and coordinating resources.
• Technical records: Maintaining aircraft maintenance histories and documentation.
• Quality and compliance: Checking that maintenance activities follow approved procedures.
• Technical training or supervision: Teaching maintenance subjects or guiding maintenance teams.

Choose a first job that helps you develop relevant skills and documented experience. The work you perform and the supervision you receive matter alongside the job title.

Trainee, Technician and Licensed AME Roles

Your responsibilities grow as you gain practical skills, experience and the required qualifications. These roles have different entry requirements and certification responsibilities.

A technician job title does not itself provide aircraft release-to-service authority. A licensed AME must also meet the conditions for exercising certification privileges. [1]

Airline, Line Maintenance and Base Maintenance Work

You may work directly for an airline or for an MRO organisation that maintains aircraft for airline customers.

• Line maintenance: Work usually takes place at airport maintenance stations. Tasks include routine checks, investigating reported faults and replacing components to support daily operations.
• Base maintenance: Work takes place mainly in hangars. Tasks include detailed inspections, structural repairs and major component changes during planned maintenance visits.
• Workshop maintenance: Specialist teams inspect, test and repair engines, avionics equipment and other components removed from aircraft. [4]

Airport maintenance can involve shifts, night work and outdoor duties. Hangar and workshop roles also require careful use of tools, maintenance instructions and safety procedures.

Other Technical and Government Opportunities

With suitable qualifications and experience, you can explore maintenance planning, technical records, quality and compliance, or technical training. Planning involves scheduling maintenance. Technical records work involves tracking completed tasks and aircraft history. Quality roles involve checking compliance with approved procedures.

These roles have their own recruitment requirements. Some require an engineering degree, an AME licence, specialist training or previous aviation experience.

Government and public-sector jobs depend on the individual recruitment notice. For example, AIESL has advertised aircraft technician positions with specified technical qualifications and experience requirements. Such advertisements are examples of recruitment routes, not a promise of current vacancies. [5]

Overseas Opportunities

A DGCA AME licence does not automatically give you certification rights in every country. Overseas employers assess your qualifications, aircraft experience, ratings and eligibility for the role.

For a certifying position, you may need to meet the relevant aviation authority’s licensing or validation requirements, complete additional examinations or training, and obtain employer authorisation. Work-permit requirements also apply.

For example, EASA states that non-EU maintenance licences cannot automatically be converted into an EASA Part-66 licence. Some non-certifying maintenance roles do not require a Part-66 licence, although employer qualification requirements still apply. [6]

AME Salary in India

AME salary depends on your job role, maintenance experience, aircraft ratings and certification authorisation. Trainees usually begin with a stipend. Technicians and licensed AMEs have different responsibilities and pay structures. Completing the course does not guarantee a particular salary.

Factors Affecting AME Salary

When comparing job offers, look at monthly take-home pay, benefits and opportunities to gain relevant experience. Salary platforms such as Indeed and AmbitionBox can help with comparisons, but their figures may combine different roles and experience levels. [7]

AME Recruiters and Employers

Airlines, MRO organisations and specialist maintenance companies employ aircraft maintenance professionals. You can explore trainee, technician and licensed AME positions according to your qualifications and experience.

Airlines

Airline engineering teams maintain aircraft, investigate defects and support safe daily operations. Examples of employers to explore include:

• Air India: Its engineering roles cover aircraft maintenance, workshops, technical services and maintenance planning. Visit Air India Engineering Careers.
• IndiGo: Its engineering department handles aircraft maintenance, troubleshooting and technical support for its fleet. Visit IndiGo Careers.
• SpiceJet: Students and experienced professionals can review its official recruitment information for relevant aircraft maintenance positions. Visit SpiceJet Careers.

Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Organisations

MRO organisations maintain aircraft, engines and components for airline and other aviation customers. Work may take place at airport maintenance stations, hangars or specialist workshops.

• AI Engineering Services Limited (AIESL): Provides line and base maintenance, engine overhaul, avionics and component maintenance. Visit AIESL Careers.
• GMR Aero Technic: Provides aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul services. Visit GMR Aero Technic Careers.
• Air Works: Provides aircraft maintenance and engineering services for airline and business aviation customers. Visit Air Works Careers.

International Employers

Experienced maintenance professionals can also explore overseas airline and MRO roles.

• Emirates Engineering: Offers career areas in aircraft maintenance and engineering support. Visit Emirates Engineering Careers.
• ST Engineering: Its commercial aerospace business includes aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul. Visit ST Engineering Aerospace Careers.

Overseas eligibility depends on the job, applicable licensing rules and work-permit requirements. A DGCA licence does not automatically provide certification authority in another country.

How to Compare Employer Opportunities

Read the vacancy’s requirements for qualifications, experience, licence category, aircraft ratings and authorisation. For an early-career role, also consider the supervision, practical work and experience records you will receive.

Why Consider an AME Career?

AME may suit you if you enjoy understanding machines, solving technical problems and working carefully with your hands. It combines classroom learning with practical tasks that contribute to aircraft safety.

• Practical learning: Learn to use tools, inspect components, follow maintenance manuals and test aircraft systems.
• Technical interests: Explore engines and mechanical systems, or electrical circuits, instruments and avionics.
• Problem-solving: Investigate faults, interpret test results and follow approved procedures to resolve problems.
• Responsibility: Develop the discipline to complete tasks correctly, record your work and report defects.
• Continued learning: Build your knowledge as aircraft technology, maintenance procedures and your responsibilities change.

Indian Aviation Growth

India’s aviation sector has expanded. The Economic Survey 2025–26, summarised by PIB on 29 January 2026, reported that the number of airports increased from 74 in 2014 to 164 in 2025. Indian airports handled 412 million passengers in FY2024–25. [8]

This expansion provides context for the importance of aircraft maintenance. It does not guarantee a job after training. Your employment prospects depend on your skills, qualifications, relevant experience and employers’ recruitment needs.

What Is an AME’s Working Life Like?

An AME’s  working life includes practical maintenance, technical checks and careful documentation. AME's routine depends on the on whether you work in line maintenance, a hangar or a component workshop. Task and responsibilities differ according to different maintenance environments. An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer has to focus on maintenance procedures, applicable technical records and aircraft condition. Accuracy, safety and proper documentation is very important part of AME's work. Some of the AME responsibilities are given below:

• Shifts and working hours: Airline maintenance can involve early mornings, night shifts, weekends and public holidays. Your schedule depends on aircraft operations and the employer’s roster.
• Hangar and outdoor work: Some tasks take place inside hangars or workshops. Others involve working around parked aircraft outdoors, with exposure to heat, rain and noise.
• Physical demands: Depending on the task, you may stand for long periods, climb access platforms, bend or work in confined spaces. Suitable equipment and safe handling procedures help you perform these tasks.
• Teamwork: You coordinate with technicians, other engineers, maintenance planners and flight crews. Clear communication and shift handovers help teams track completed work and unresolved defects.
• Safety responsibilities: You follow approved maintenance instructions, use the correct tools and record your work accurately. You must report problems and stay within your training and authorisation.
• Continued learning: Aircraft systems and procedures change. Reading technical updates and completing relevant training remain part of the job.

This career may suit you if you enjoy practical work, pay attention to detail and take responsibility seriously. It also requires flexibility about work schedules and a willingness to follow procedures consistently.

Further Study and Career Development

After AME training, you can build your career through maintenance experience, further study and specialist training. Choose the next step according to the work you want to do.

• Academic qualifications: You may pursue a recognised B.Sc. or B.Tech programme if you meet its admission requirements. A degree is a separate qualification and does not automatically grant an AME licence.
• Aircraft type training: Training on a particular aircraft type can support progression towards the relevant licence endorsement. Applicable examinations, assessments and OJT requirements must also be met. [1]
• Specialist training: Areas such as non-destructive testing (NDT), composite repairs and engine or avionics maintenance can help you develop specific skills. Each has its own training, experience and qualification requirements.
• Additional licence categories: You can work towards another AME category by meeting its additional knowledge and experience requirements. It is not an automatic upgrade. [1]
• Broader responsibilities: With suitable qualifications and experience, you may progress into supervision, maintenance planning, quality and compliance, or technical training.

Build relevant practical experience alongside further qualifications. A certificate is most useful when it supports the skills and responsibilities required for your intended role.

How AME CET Helps Students

AME CET helps students explore aviation courses and seek admission at participating institutes through an entrance examination and counselling. You can get guidance on course choices, admission steps and applicable scholarships. [3]

• Entrance examination: Your AME CET result and All India Rank (AIR) support the counselling and admission process, subject to course eligibility and seat availability.
• Course guidance: AME CET counsellors help you understand mechanical and avionics options so you can compare them with your interests.
• Admission counselling: Get help comparing participating institutes, available categories, fees and training arrangements.
• Scholarship opportunities: Eligible candidates may receive rank-based scholarships under the published scheme. For AME CET 2027, awards apply to first-semester tuition fees, subject to scholarship limits and admission through AME CET counselling. [3]

Who Handles Each Part?

Qualifying AME CET does not itself grant an AME licence or guarantee employment. Speak with AME CET counsellors to understand your admission options and plan your next step.

References and Sources

Fees, scholarships and recruitment conditions may change between admission cycles. Regulatory editions and source dates are listed below. Official employer careers links appear in the recruiters section.

1. DGCA — CAR-66: Licensing of Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. Issue III, Revision 2, dated 29 September 2025. Relevant sections: 66.A.3, 66.A.15, 66.A.20, 66.A.25, 66.A.30 and 66.A.45; Appendices I and III. DGCA portal · Reproduced copy of the DGCA document. DGCA’s public notice dated 26 February 2026 confirms use of this syllabus for the March 2026 examinations.
2. DGCA — CAR-147 (Basic): Approved Basic Maintenance Training Organisations. Issue 1, Revision 0, dated 27 December 2017. Relevant sections: 147.A.200, 147.A.205 and 147.A.210; Appendices I and III. Covers basic training, examinations, practical assessments, training hours and Certificates of Recognition. DGCA CAR-147 (Basic)
3. AME CET — Examination, Counselling and Scholarship Information. 2027 admission cycle. Relevant sections: eligibility, application process, counselling and scholarship terms, including first-semester tuition coverage and award limits. AME CET official examination page
4. AIESL — Maintenance Services and Facilities. Supports descriptions of line maintenance, base maintenance, engine overhaul and avionics and component workshops. AIESL services
5. AIESL — Aircraft Technician Recruitment Notice. Dated 5 April 2024. Relevant sections: educational qualifications and maintenance experience. Historical recruitment example; not evidence of a current vacancy. AIESL careers and recruitment notices
6. EASA — Aircraft Maintenance Licensing FAQs. Explains Part-66 licensing, conversion provisions and which maintenance roles require a licence. Obtaining a Part-66 licence · Licence conversion · Roles requiring Part-66
7. Salary comparison resources: Indeed salary guide, updated 2 December 2025; AmbitionBox AME salaries; AmbitionBox senior AME salaries. Supplementary resources for comparing roles. No salary averages from these pages are quoted in this article.
8. Press Information Bureau — Economic Survey 2025–26: Infrastructure and Civil Aviation. Published 29 January 2026. Relevant section: Civil Aviation. Supports the cited airport expansion and FY2024–25 passenger figures. PIB Economic Survey summary