The AME B1.2 stream is a specialised licence based course regulated by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). It specifically trains students to maintain inspect repair troubleshoot, and certify piston engine aircraft such as light planes training aircraft or small private/commercial planes. The programme spans 2 to 3 years (about 2400 hours) combining both theoretical modules like mathematics physics aerodynamics materials engine systems and practical training on actual piston engine aircraft.
Upon completion (and after required practical exposure and exams) a student receives a DGCA issued licence in Category B1.2, qualifying them to certify piston-engine aircraft as airworthy.
Focus and specialization: A conventional engineering degree (e.g., Mechanical, Aeronautical, Aerospace) is broad — covering general engineering principles, theory, design, and possibly research. In contrast, AME B1.2 is very specialised it trains you specifically for maintenance and operation of piston-engine aircraft.
Licence vs degree: AME B1.2 leads to a licence recognised in aviation industry not a bachelor’s degree. That means you get a credential that allows you to legally maintain and certify aircraft which a regular degree does not automatically grant.
Time and entry path: AME B1.2 takes 2–3 years and can begin after 10+2 (PCM) or a diploma. Engineering degrees usually take 4 years (or more) and admissions often require PCM too.
Practical vs theoretical orientation: AME emphasises practical hands on training working on real aircraft piston engines systems maintenance practices. Regular engineering degrees may include labs and projects but are more theory-heavy and directed toward design research development, or broader engineering fields.
Career outcome: With AME B1.2 you become eligible for jobs like licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer line/base maintenance engine technician (piston) MRO organisations flying clubs small airlines etc. A regular engineering degree gives more varied options: design R&D aerospace firms or further studies but not the guaranteed licence to maintain/certify aircraft.
If your goal is to get into aircraft maintenance and hands-on aviation work especially with piston engine or small aircraft AME B1.2 is a direct job ready licence-oriented path that gets you working in 2–3 years. If instead you are interested in broader engineering knowledge aircraft design research development, or flexibility across industries then a regular engineering degree may suit you better.