If you own or operate a small aircraft, such as a Beechcraft Bonanza, Cessna, or Cirrus, you know how important it is to work with a certified mechanic. But how exactly do aircraft mechanics earn their certification, and why is it so crucial for maintaining the safety and reliability of your aircraft? At Granbury Aviation Services, we believe in transparency and want to help you understand the process mechanics go through to become certified so you can trust the professionals who work on your aircraft.
The Importance of A&P Certification
Aircraft mechanics in the U.S. are required to earn an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification to perform maintenance, repairs, and inspections on aircraft. This certification, issued by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), ensures that mechanics have the necessary knowledge and skills to work on the critical systems that keep your aircraft safe in the air.
An A&P certification allows mechanics to:
- Perform maintenance and repairs on an aircraft’s airframe (the structure, fuselage, landing gear, etc.).
- Work on an aircraft’s powerplant, which includes the engine and other propulsion-related components.
At Granbury Aviation Services, we only employ FAA-certified A&P mechanics, ensuring that your aircraft receives the highest standard of care.
The Path to Becoming an A&P Mechanic
Educational Requirements
The first step in becoming a certified aircraft mechanic is meeting the FAA’s educational or experience requirements. Most aspiring mechanics attend an FAA-approved aviation maintenance technician school (AMTS). These programs typically take about 18 to 24 months to complete and cover all aspects of aircraft maintenance, including airframe and powerplant systems. Some individuals may qualify for certification through on-the-job experience. The FAA allows candidates to skip formal schooling if they can demonstrate 18 months of practical experience in either airframe or powerplant mechanics (or 30 months for both).
DME Testing (Designated Mechanic Examiner)
After completing their education or practical experience, aspiring mechanics must pass a series of tests administered by a Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME). DMEs are certified by the FAA to assess candidates through both written and practical exams. At Granbury Aviation Services, Ronnie Stowell is a certified DME instructor and administrator, meaning we have the expertise to guide aspiring mechanics through the testing process, ensuring they are fully prepared to earn their A&P certification. The testing process includes:
- A written exam covering general aviation knowledge, airframe, and powerplant systems.
- An oral exam where candidates are asked to demonstrate their understanding of specific systems and procedures.
- A practical exam that requires candidates to perform maintenance tasks under the supervision of the DME. Passing these tests demonstrates that the candidate is capable of working safely and effectively on aircraft.
At Granbury Aviation Services, we offer DME testing and certification.
FAA Certification
Once candidates have passed all parts of the DME testing, they are eligible to apply for their A&P certificate from the FAA. This certification allows them to legally perform maintenance, inspections, and repairs on aircraft. Certified mechanics are required to adhere to strict FAA regulations and complete ongoing training to keep their skills up-to-date.
Why Working With a Certified Mechanic Matters
Having an A&P-certified mechanic work on your aircraft is not just a legal requirement—it’s essential for ensuring the safety and reliability of your plane. Certified mechanics have demonstrated their ability to:
- Diagnose and repair complex mechanical systems.
- Perform thorough inspections that comply with FAA standards.
- Address potential safety issues before they become major problems.
At Granbury Aviation Services, our team of certified mechanics provides a range of services designed to keep your aircraft in top condition, from annual inspections and 50-hour checks to STC installations and more. We work transparently, providing detailed logbook records of all maintenance performed, so you always know the condition of your aircraft.
The Role of a DME in Certification
A Designated Mechanic Examiner (DME) plays a vital role in the certification process. DMEs, like Ronnie Stowell at Granbury Aviation Services, ensure that mechanics are thoroughly tested before receiving their A&P certification. This rigorous process helps maintain high industry standards and ensures that the mechanics working on your aircraft are both knowledgeable and capable.
If you’re a pilot or aircraft owner, you can rest easy knowing that when you work with a certified mechanic, you’re partnering with someone who has proven their expertise through extensive training and testing.
Trust Granbury Aviation Services for All Your Aircraft Maintenance Needs
Whether you’re scheduling routine maintenance or dealing with an unexpected repair, you can trust the team at Granbury Aviation Services to deliver professional, certified service for your aircraft. Our mechanics have undergone the rigorous certification process, and with Ronnie Stowell as a certified DME, we are uniquely positioned to ensure that every aircraft that comes through our doors is handled with the utmost care.
For small aircraft owners and pilots in the North Texas and Oklahoma region, our services are tailored to Beechcraft Bonanza, Cessna, and Cirrus models, offering everything from routine inspections to advanced modifications. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your aircraft’s ongoing safety and performance.
