What Is the Salary of an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer in India and Abroad?
Posted on : 12 February, 2026 10:12 am
An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) plays a vital role in aviation by ensuring that every aircraft is safe, reliable, and airworthy. Without AMEs, flights simply cannot take off. With aviation expanding rapidly both in India and globally, the demand for skilled AMEs is increasing every year. A key question that many aspiring engineers and professionals ask is: What is the salary of an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer in India and abroad?
This blog provides a complete comparison of salaries, growth potential, and career opportunities for AMEs in India versus abroad.
Salary of an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer in India
Indias aviation sector is among the fastest-growing markets in the world, with new airlines, airports, and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities creating steady demand for licensed AMEs under DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation).
Entry-Level Salaries
Freshers with a valid DGCA AME license can expect salaries between INR3 LPA to INR6 LPA. Pay varies depending on the airline, type of aircraft, and location of posting.
Mid-Level Salaries
With 5-10 years of experience, salaries usually range between INR8 LPA to INR15 LPA. Engineers with type ratings on aircraft like Airbus A320 or Boeing 737 are paid at the higher end.
Senior-Level Salaries
Highly experienced AMEs holding multiple type ratings and working in supervisory roles can earn INR18 LPA to INR25 LPA or more. Their ability to certify complex aircraft systems makes them highly valuable.
Salary of an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Abroad
Abroad, AMEs are often referred to as EASA Part-66 Licensed Engineers (in Europe) or A&P Mechanics (in the USA). Salaries are significantly higher due to international standards, global demand, and advanced technologies.
Salaries in Europe
An EASA-certified AME earns between €40,000 to €70,000 annually, depending on experience, airline, and type ratings.
Salaries in the Middle East
Leading airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad offer salaries of $4,000 to $8,000 per month. These packages often include benefits such as housing, travel allowances, and tax-free income.
Salaries in North America
In the U.S. and Canada, FAA-certified AMEs earn between $60,000 to $90,000 annually, with senior engineers crossing $100,000 per year.
Salary Comparison: India vs. Abroad
| Career Stage | India (DGCA License) | Abroad (EASA/FAA License) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | INR3 LPA - INR6 LPA | $30,000 - $50,000 annually (approx. INR25-40 LPA) |
| Mid-Level (5-10 years) | INR8 LPA - INR15 LPA | $40,000 - $70,000 annually (approx. INR35-60 LPA) |
| Senior-Level | INR18 LPA - INR25 LPA or more | $80,000 - $120,000 annually (approx. INR65-100 LPA) |
| Additional Benefits | Limited to allowances and bonuses | Tax-free salaries (Middle East), housing, travel perks |
Factors Influencing AME Salaries
- Licensing & Certification: International licenses like EASA Part-66 or FAA lead to better pay.
- Aircraft Type Ratings: Certification on popular models such as Airbus A320 or Boeing 777 significantly increases earnings.
- Experience Level: Salaries rise steeply as engineers gain more hands-on experience.
- Geographical Location: Pay abroad is higher due to global demand and cost of living.
Conclusion
The salary of an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer depends on factors like licensing, experience, and country of employment. While India offers competitive salaries with excellent growth due to its booming aviation sector, working abroad provides higher pay scales, global exposure, and advanced opportunities. For ambitious AMEs, the ideal path is to begin in India, gain solid experience, and then upgrade to an international license such as EASA Part-66 or FAA to unlock lucrative global careers. A career as an AME is not just financially rewarding-it is also a position of immense responsibility, ensuring the safety of millions of passengers across the world.
