How to Become an AME

The first step towards becoming an AME begins right after higher secondary education.

To enrol in an AME program, students must have:

• Completed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM)

OR

• Diploma in Engineering recognised by AICTE or State Technical Education Board with PCM subjects

These academic requirements ensure that students possess the scientific and analytical foundation necessary to understand aircraft systems, aerodynamics, propulsion, and aviation technology.

Students from science and technical backgrounds are ideally suited for this profession as aircraft maintenance demands precision, technical understanding, and problem-solving ability.

After meeting eligibility requirements, students must enrol in a DGCA-approved AME training organisation operating under CAR-147 regulations.

DGCA approval is essential because:

• Only approved institutes can provide recognised AME training
• Training follows international aviation safety standards
• Students become eligible for DGCA licensing examinations

At approved institutes such as ARDC, part of the Sha-Shib Group network, students receive structured aviation education supported by modern laboratories, workshops, and exposure to operational aircraft environments.

Choosing the right institute plays a crucial role in shaping technical competence and career opportunities.

The AME program typically spans three years, combining theoretical education with intensive practical training.

Academic Training Includes:

• Aircraft systems and structures
• Jet and piston engines
• Avionics systems
• Electrical and instrumentation systems
• Aviation regulations and safety procedures
• Maintenance practices and inspection techniques

Practical Training Includes:

• Workshops and maintenance labs
• Aircraft component handling
• Hangar training sessions
• Live aircraft familiarisation
• Tool usage and inspection procedures

Training takes place in a controlled aviation environment designed to simulate real airline and maintenance operations.

This phase builds the technical confidence required for real-world aircraft maintenance responsibilities.

During and after academic training, students must successfully clear the DGCA CAR-66 module examinations.

These examinations evaluate knowledge across critical aviation maintenance subjects such as:

• Aircraft aerodynamics
• Electrical fundamentals
• Turbine engines
• Aircraft systems
• Maintenance practices
• Aviation legislation

Passing all required modules is mandatory to progress toward AME licensing eligibility.

DGCA module certification demonstrates that a candidate meets national and international competency standards required in aviation maintenance.

After clearing DGCA modules, candidates must undergo practical maintenance experience at DGCA-approved Maintenance Repair Organisations (MROs) operating under CAR-145 approval.

This stage is extremely important because:

• Students work on operational aircraft
• Real airline maintenance procedures are learned
• Exposure to scheduled and unscheduled maintenance occurs
• Troubleshooting skills are developed

Typical experience includes:

• Aircraft inspections
• Component replacement
• System testing
• Maintenance documentation
• Safety compliance procedures

Without this hands-on aircraft maintenance experience, an AME licence cannot be issued. This phase transforms students into industry-ready aviation professionals

Once candidates complete:

1. Required DGCA module examinations

2. Mandatory aircraft maintenance experience

3. Type training requirements

They can apply for the Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Licence issued by DGCA under CAR-66 regulations.

The licence authorises engineers within specific aircraft categories, such as:

• Mechanical Stream (B1.1, B1.2, B1.3)
• Avionics Stream (B2)

The AME licence is internationally aligned with ICAO standards, making Indian AMEs employable across global aviation markets.

After licensing and aircraft-type endorsement, the engineer becomes a Certifying Staff, also known as a CRS (Certificate of Release to Service) authority.

This is the most critical milestone in an AME career.

A Certifying AME is legally authorised to:

• Inspect aircraft condition
• Approve completed maintenance work
• Certify aircraft as safe for flight operations

No aircraft can depart without certification from licensed AME personnel. This responsibility places AMEs among the most trusted professionals in aviation safety worldwide.