Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) B1.4 Stream is very popular among aircraft maintenance courses. This stream focuses on helicopter turbine engines, mainly used in defense, rescue operations, offshore services, and VIP transport.
An AME B1.4 engineer is responsible for inspection, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of mechanical and engine systems of helicopters operated by jet engines. The primary objective of an AME engineer is to ensure safety and airworthiness standards set by DGCA.
This course is approved by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Government of India. The AME B1.4 stream is a licensed program that opens various career opportunities at national and international levels.
About AME B1.4 Stream
The B1.4 stream of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering primarily deals with turbine engine-powered helicopters. These are rotary-wing aircraft operating with advanced turbine propulsion systems, used in medical emergencies, search and rescue, aerial surveillance, and transport.
Students pursuing this stream learn about:
- Inspection and maintenance of turbine engines installed in helicopters.
- Understanding aeromechanical systems, including rotor heads, gearboxes, and transmissions.
- Troubleshooting issues in powerplants and flight control systems.
- Certifying rotorcraft after maintenance as per DGCA safety and airworthiness standards.
This stream demands strong technical understanding, problem-solving skills, and in-depth knowledge of aviation mechanics and helicopter aerodynamics.
Course Duration
The AME B1.4 course duration is around 2 to 3 years, designed to train students to become licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers for turbine engine helicopters. It covers both theoretical and practical training, including aircraft systems, maintenance practices, and aviation regulations. The program contains 2400 hours of training as per DGCA rules and requirements, including practical sessions on real helicopters to understand real-life challenges and develop skills to clear DGCA licensing exams.
AME B1.4 Syllabus (As per DGCA)
The DGCA-approved syllabus ensures students gain detailed theoretical knowledge and practical skills in turbine helicopter maintenance.
Theoretical Modules
| Module No. |
Subject Name |
Explanation |
| M1 |
Mathematics |
Covers calculations, load analysis, and helicopter design-related formulas. |
| M2 |
Physics |
Explains motion, energy, aerodynamics, and rotor dynamics principles. |
| M3 |
Electrical Fundamentals |
Involves circuits, sensors, and electrical systems in helicopters. |
| M4 |
Electronic Fundamentals |
Basic electronic concepts like transistors, diodes, and their role in control systems. |
| M5 |
Digital Techniques / Electronic Instrument Systems |
Understanding avionics, microprocessors, and control instruments. |
| M6 |
Materials and Hardware |
Study of materials and fasteners used in helicopter manufacturing and repair. |
| M7A |
Maintenance Practices |
Standard procedures and tools for helicopter maintenance. |
| M8 |
Basic Aerodynamics |
Explains forces acting on rotorcraft, lift, and flight controls. |
| M9A |
Human Factors |
Focus on teamwork, safety, and human performance in maintenance. |
| M10 |
Aviation Legislation |
DGCA and international aviation laws and safety regulations. |
| M11B |
Helicopter Aerodynamics, Structures, and Systems |
Detailed study of rotor systems, gearboxes, transmissions, hydraulics, and flight controls. |
| M15 |
Gas Turbine Engine |
Detailed understanding of turbine engine principles, components, and maintenance. |
| M17 |
Propeller/Rotary Systems |
Helicopter-specific — covers rotor balancing, pitch control, and blade tracking. |
Practical Training Includes:
- Working on turbine-powered helicopters in hangars and workshops.
- Disassembly and reassembly of turbine engines and rotor systems.
- Inspection and performance checks of powerplants, gearboxes, and transmissions.
- Ground run-up procedures and vibration analysis.
- Troubleshooting and rectification of engine and flight control issues.
- Real-time maintenance experience at approved MROs and helicopter bases.
AME B1.4 Eligibility Criteria
To get admission in AME B1.4 stream, students must meet the following conditions:
- Qualified 12th with PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) from a recognized board, or a 3-year engineering diploma from an AICTE-approved institution.
- Minimum 45% marks in 12th or equivalent.
- Age between 16 to 28 years at the time of admission.
- Medically fit with no color blindness or physical disabilities.
Admission Process through AME CET 2026
Admission is through the AME Common Entrance Test (AME CET), a national-level exam. The process includes:
- Meet eligibility criteria
- Appear for entrance exams (AME CET or JEE Main)
- Submit applications online or offline
- Seat allotment through counseling
- Document verification and fee payment
- Reporting to the college
Career Scope After AME B1.4
With increasing helicopter operations in civil and defense aviation, B1.4 licensed AMEs are in high demand worldwide.
Where You Can Work:
- Helicopter Operators: Pawan Hans, Global Vectra Helicorp, Aryan Aviation
- Defense & Government: Indian Air Force, Navy, DRDO, ISRO
- MROs: GMR Aero Technic, Air Works, Taneja Aerospace
- International Helicopter Operators: Bristow, CHC Helicopter, Leonardo, Airbus Helicopters
- Private Charter Companies & Offshore Oil Operations
Job Profiles and Roles
| Job Profile |
Description |
| Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (Licensed) |
Responsible for certifying helicopters after maintenance. |
| Line Maintenance Engineer |
Performs routine inspections and minor repairs between flights. |
| Base Maintenance Engineer |
Handles in-depth maintenance, overhauls, and component replacements. |
| Powerplant Technician |
Specializes in turbine engines used in helicopters. |
| Transmission & Rotor Technician |
Focuses on rotor head, gearbox, and transmission systems. |
| Technical Services Engineer |
Assists with maintenance data, manuals, and records. |
| Quality Assurance Inspector |
Ensures all procedures meet DGCA and international standards. |
| Maintenance Planning Executive |
Plans and schedules helicopter maintenance activities. |
AME Salary Packages
| Experience Level |
Average Annual Salary |
Remarks |
| Fresher (During OJT) |
INR 3 – INR 4.5 lakh |
Hands-on training under supervision |
| Licensed AME (DGCA Certified) |
INR 6 – INR 10 lakh |
Can certify helicopters for flight |
| Experienced Engineer (5+ years) |
INR 12 – INR 18 lakh |
Senior positions in airlines/MROs |
| International Opportunities |
INR 20 lakh and above |
Gulf, Europe, and offshore markets |
Why Choose the B1.4 Stream in AME
- Globally Recognized License – DGCA and international acceptance
- Hands-On Practical Career – Work directly with helicopters and turbine engines
- High Job Demand – Civil, defense, and offshore aviation sectors
- Career Stability – Helicopter operations continue to grow worldwide
- Global Mobility – Licensed AMEs can work abroad
- Prestigious Role – Responsible for passenger and operational safety
Future Growth in the Helicopter Industry
- India to double its helicopter fleet by 2030 for medical and transport use
- Global helicopter market expected to reach USD 70 billion by 2032
- Expansion in offshore operations, tourism, and air ambulance services
- Make in India initiative promoting local manufacturing and maintenance centers
- Increasing demand for DGCA-certified AMEs for civil and defense fleets
The AME B1.4 stream blends mechanical expertise, aerodynamics, and turbine technology, focused on helicopter maintenance and safety. It offers a highly technical and rewarding aviation career, ensuring the safety and reliability of turbine-powered rotorcraft. Apply through AME CET 2026 to start your global aviation journey.
If you dream of working on helicopters, turbine engines, and advanced aviation technology, apply for the AME B1.4 Stream through AME CET 2026 and take your first step toward a global aviation career.
