Aircraft maintenance engineers - Nature of Work

Aircraft mechanics/Aircraft maintenance engineers

Aircraft Mechanics work in the maintenance of aircraft frame, engine, electrical systems and other ancilliary fittings. Airlines employ aircraft mechanics for two kinds of operations.They work as line maintenance mechanics or as overhaul mechanics. The former can work on all parts of the aircraft. At airports they make necessary emergency and other required repairs.They are guided by flight engineers for the required repair and also to carry out complete inspection of the aircraft prior to take off.

Overhaul mechanics are incharge of carrying out the routine maintenance after the required number of flying hours have been completed. There are aircraft airframe mechanics and aircraft power plant mechanics.The former are incharge of overhauling the airframe while the latter work on the engine. Mechanics may work on one type of aircraft or on many different types of aircrafts.To optimise efficiency often mechanics are trained to specialise in electrical systems or as pneumatic testers or even as air conditioning mechanics etc.

Employment Avenues

Employment is available with Air India, Indian Airlines, Pawan Hans, Helicopter Corporation of India and flying clubs, private airlines and government owned air service. Besides Airlines Aeronautical Engineers get employment in organisations such as Hindustan Aeronautical Ltd, Defence Research and Development Laboratories, National Aeronautical Lab, Aeronautical Develop­ment Establishment, Civil Aviation Department and other places. With the rise in the number of private air taxis and liberalisation of air space, avenues for aeronautical engineers has seen an upward swing.

There are 4 levels of trainee appointment for Aircraft maintenance engineers in National Carriers for a period of one year. They then get appointed as Assistant Aircraft Engineers after they have obtained the licence from DGCA.

Engineers in government organisations, such as HAL, NAL are paid official scales while those in the private sector are paid according to the scales decided by the management of the company, Airline professionals get fringe benefits of free travel for self and family also.

Diploma holders in Aeronautics work as technicians in Engineering department or if they do one year additional BE equivalent Associate Membership of the Aeronautical Society of India (AMAeSI) in Aeronautics with AME course they are eligible for higher positions in the organisation. They may also go for higher studies in ME, M Tech.

Aircraft maintenance engineers - Study and Training

Aircraft mechanics have a B.Sc. degree with 2 years practical experience or Senior Secondary with 3 years Diploma in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering or diploma in engineering. Airmen from the Indian Air Force with Senior Secondary Examination qualification and experience of working on aircraft engines, frames, electrical and electronic equipment are also considered for recruitment.

The sophisticated new generation aircraft systems need adequately trained technical personnel for their maintenance. Training is imparted in maintenance of aircrafts for 100% flight safety. The courses in Aircraft Maintenance are open to both men and women and are granted recognition by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The course duration is 3 years 6 months and the training is imparted in Mechanical maintenance and in Avionics.

Mechanical stream covers categories ‘A’ and ‘C’ of the AME Licence Exam and Avionics covers categories ‘E’ (electrical), ‘I’ (instrumentation) and ‘R’ (radio) of the AME Licence Exam conducted by DGCA.

Training in aircraft maintenance engineering -

Students on completing 10+2 with PCM with 60% marks/B.Sc with 55% marks can seek admission to 3 year course in the subject. Some institutions may accept candidates securing 50% marks in Physics and Maths but candidates will have to clear an entrance examination. Age - 20 years maximum.

18 subjects are taught ranging from theory of flight (Aerodynamics), workshop technology, A/C Metallurgy, A/C Electricity and Electronics, CAR and A/C Rules to Engineering Drawing and Jet Engineers with such sophisticated appliances as radio equipments, compass systems, gyroscopic instruments, aviation direction finder (Black Box) reciprocating in - line and radial engines. The practical course package includes training in fitting shop, welding shop, machine shop, airframe shop, engine shop and aircraft and electrical shop.

The Institute is in possession of an aircraft complete in all respects for the practical ground training of students. It has also arrangements with aviator’s cooperative society for the apprenticeship of training.

The candidates enrolled for a course in AME complete the syllabus, pass internal examinations and apply for licence from DGCA. They have to clear written and oral tests. Students are advised to enroll only in DGCA approved institutions.

Associate Membership of the Aeronautical Society of India

The Society conducts associate membership examination. Sections A and B of this examination has been recognised by the Ministry of Education, at par with a bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering from an Indian university. Established in 1948 this is a professional body with a large number of corporate members, including all major organisations and industries in the aeronautics field in the country and also some of the world’s leading aeronautical industries. Students passing A&B of the Society’s examination are eligible to appear in the GATE or post graduate studies at IITs. Candidates who have passed Associate Membership Examination of the Society are eligible for relaxation of 12 months experience requirements for the Aircraft Maintenance Engineers licence conducted by the Director General of Civil Aviation. The Engineering Council of London grants direct entry in part two of their examination for those who have passed sections A & B.

Aeronautical engineering can be studied with this society through correspondence. The examination consists of three parts-Studentship, Section A and Section B. About 200 aeronautical engineers pass out from various institutions in the country every year. The Aeronautical Research and Development Board has introduced several schemes in the interest of the students and employers. A scholarship is made available to the candidates from the first year of admission. A scholarship scheme for practising aeronautical engineers is at the pilot stage. An increase in research and development facilities within the country offers challenging prospects to aeronautical professionals in fields such as missile development, civil and military aircrafts manufacture etc.

Educational qualification for membership examination -

The minimum educational qualification for appearing in this exam is a pass in Class X. Students who have passed the studentship or who have cleared the 10+2 stage with Physics and Maths are eligible for part A. Candidates who have passed a Diploma in Engineering are also eligible for the test. Airmen of the Indian Airforce and Air technical personnel can appear in the section A of the exam directly.

Section B examination can be taken by candidates who have completed Section A of the Society or hold a degree in engineering. There are 8 speciality streams in section ‘B’-Aerodynamics/Structural mechanics/Propulsion/Avionics/Production/Maintenance/Navigation and Operation/Communication.

Examination centres are at Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Indore, Kharagpur, Chennai and Tiruvananthapuram.

Address for contact : Aeronautical Society of India, 13-B Indraprastha Estate, New Delhi.

Courses and Institutions

Training Institutes -

Students after Class XII with Physics and Maths may enroll for a 3-4 years course in an Aeronautical Engineering equivalent course for the AMAeSI (Associate Membership of Aeronautical Society of India). Institutes conducting the course make arrangements for practical training.

Some institutes are :-

School of Aeronautics, H 974, Palam Extn., Part 1, Sector - 7, Dwarka, New Delhi-110045, Email : soapalam@mantraonline.com

Course – Aircraft Maintainance Engineering

Eligibility – 10+2 with PCM with 50% marks Minimum age 17 years

Delhi Institute of Aeronautical Studies, 551-A, 3rd Floor, Chirag Delhi, New Delhi-110 017

School of Aviation Science & Technology, Delhi Flying Club Ltd., Safdarjung Airport, New Delhi-110003

School of Aviation Science & Technology (Faculty of Engineering) is a pioneer institution with unique contribution in Aviation industry . The institution conducts the following courses :

Courses

-- Full time regular courses of Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. AB-Initio BAMEL/Aircraft Maintenance Engineer’s Licence Training Programme (Approved by Director General of Civil Aviation) for appearing in Categores ‘A’ & ‘C’ (Airframe & Engine) and category ‘R’ (Radio Communication & Navigation) Licence examination conducted by D.G.C.A, Govt. of India.

Duration -

Three years may be extended depending upon D.G.C.A. requirements.

Eligibility -

Senior School Certificate (10+2) or equivalent with Physics, Chemistry, Maths & English (PCME) with 60% marks (in aggregate in PCME) or B.Sc. (P) in Physics, Chemistry & Maths (PCM) with 55%.

Age limit - Upper age upto 20 years for 10+2. Upper age upto 22 years for B.Sc.

Selection - A written test is conducted for selecting candidates for the course. The test is of 12th standard level in PCM & E.

-- ‘On-the-job practical training programme’ to cover AME Licence in Category A and C on Cessena A-152 Aircraft/Engine.

Duration -

One year/six months

Eligibility -

SSC or equivalent with English, Physics, Chemistry, Maths plus two and half years AME training programme from an Institution approved by DGCA

Courses for Flight despatcher -

(10+2 with Physics and Maths), Private Pilot Licence (10+2 with Physics and Maths), Commercial Pilot Licence (only for PPL holders), Radio Telephony Restricted (Aeromobile)

Rajiv Gandhi Memorial College of Aeronautics, Opp. Sanganer Airport, Jaipur-302 001. (Approved by DGCA, Govt. of India, New Delhi).

Course - Aircraft Maintenance Engineers.

Eligibility - 10+2 with Phy, Chem & Maths and have secured at least 50% agg. marks in Phy, Chem. and Maths. Diploma in any branch of Engineering Direct admission to those scoring 60% or above in PCM. Age – 17-23 years. Session - July.

Bharat Institute of Aeronautics, Patna Airport, Patna 800014

Institute of Aviation Tech.,1265, Sector 6, Bahadurgarh, Haryana 124507

Hindustan Electronics Academy, 61, Cambridge Road, P.B.No. 806, Ulsoor, Bangalore 560008

Flytech Aviation Academy, 102, AI-Kauser, Street No.1, Road No.10, West Marredpally, Secunderabad-500 026 (A.P) URL:www.flytechaviation.com

Institute of Aeronautical Engg., Building No. R-40, Old Airport Road, Secunderabad - 500011 (B.Tech. in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering AICTE approved).

Nehru College of Aeronautics and Applied Sciences, Coimbatore

VSM Aerospace, Chelekere Village, (near Kammanahalli), Bangalore 560043

Punjab Aircraft Maintenance Engineering College, Civil Aerodrome, Patiala-147001 (Licence and Diploma Course)

Hindustan Institute of Aeronautics, 5, Temple View, Near Neori Mandir, Lal Gathi, Bhopal (M.P.)

Institute of Aeronautics & Engineering has the following branches: Shahpur road, NH 12, Bhopal (MP) and 21, Road No. 7, Extension Cross Road, No.3 Dalma view colony, Sonari, Jamshedpur-831011 Bihar. IIAS, P-254 Michael Nagar, Jessore Road, West Bengal - 743296

Courses - It offers courses for the mechanical branch (airframes and engines) and avionics branch (electrical and instruments). Both the branches have 30 seats per session. The three-year programme has been divided into six semesters that include six months on the job practical training on aircraft.

Selection – Joint entrance exam held by DGCA approved institutes.

Indian Institute of Aeronautics (Unit of Takniki Vikash Sansthan, approved by DGCA Govt. of India) 18/55, Punjabi Bagh (west) New Delhi - 110026, Website - iia_delhi.tripod.com.

College of Aeronautical Engineering & Technology, 125/1, Mangal Pandey Nagar, Opp. CCS University, Meerut (UP) 250005. E-mail - caet-mrt@yahoo.com

Course – Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME).

Duration – 3 years (additional 1yr. for BE Aeronautics)

Eligibility – 10+2 with 50 % in Phy. and Maths/Diploma in Engg. or B.Sc. with PCM. Age – 17 years

Indian Institute of Aircraft Engineering, Maurya Lok Complex, Patna - 800001, Bihar.

Aircraft manufacture - Nature of Work

Aircraft manufacture

Introduction

Manufacturing of aircrafts for commercial or military use is a highly technical field.Tremendous amount of Research and Development function precedes production of an aircraft.This field has been developing steadily and can boast of real technological advancements.Space research and study has offered challenges and have continued to intrigue students to pursue relevant branches of engineering and other related subjects.

The Research & Development department of an aircraft manufacturer includes a variety of highly trained engineers, scientists and technicians specia-lising in areas such as aerospace, aeronautics, electronics, computer scien-ce, robotics, biomedicine, acoustics, chemistry, physics and meteorology.

When an aircraft is ready for manufacture it needs to undergo testflights. Research pilots have several years of experience and hence they are required to test prototype designs and suggest modifications for its optimum efficiency.

The manufacturing department has a team of engineers and technicians.
Engineering technicians, numerical control tool programmers, template
makers, machine operators tool inspectors, die makers. Technical writers
interpret scientific data to other departments and ensure coordinated work. Graphic artists work on the draft details of the aircrafts design.

Nature of Work

Aerospace Engineers

Aerospace engineering encompasses the fields of aeronautical and astronautical (spacecraft) engineering. Aerospace engineering is an emerging field in India but has been a challenging career in the west where major space programmes have taken off since long .

Aerospace engineers generally work as a team in designing, assembling and testing aircrafts and space crafts. Aerospace science draws people with backgrounds in physics, mathematics, earth sciences, aerodynamics and biological sciences.Aerospace engineers, however, have a backgroud in mechanical/electrical/mechanical engineering. Aerospace engineers may be required to work on the designing of complete aircrafts or may specialise in special areas of the industry such as missile guidance systems, propulsion, and guidance control systems. Aeronautical engineers work specifically with aircraft systems while astronautical engineers specialise in space craft systems.

Aerospace engineering is the study of the complexities of materials and structures put to use under atmospheric stress. Aerospace Engineers learn and apply the knowledge of aerodynamics, propulsion, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, flight mechanics, and structural analysis. They are also involved in cost analysis, operations research and may be required to update their work through research, conduct reliability studies, assess maintenance functions and also step out for marketing or administrative functions.

Aerospace Engineers who work on the designing of space crafts work with numerical and technical details using theoretical engineering principles.They may be called Analytical Engineers. Others who study the impact of atmospheric stress and how loads and weights behave under different atmospheric conditions are Stress Analysts.These engineers are experts at using computer systems to study such processes using complex formulas.

Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineers (CFD) use sophisticated high speed computers to develop models used in the study of fluid dynamics.They use simulations to study the behavior of elements around objects.

Aerospace Design Engineers work with engineers who are experts in aerodynamics, astrodynamics and structural engineering. The designing process involves computer aided design programmes. Manufacturing Engineering involves the development of individual components for aircraft and spacecraft manufacture and this involves coordination with the design team.

Aerospace Engineers (materials) assess the materials used for manufacture of aircrafts /spacecrafts particularly for their suitability in terms of density, strength, rigidity as well as cost effectiveness. They determine how various materials react to temperature and atmospheric variations.

Finished products undergo quality control assessments by engineers assigned to carry out the task.The products must pass tests of reliability and are assessed for its future maintenance.

Aircrafts and space crafts are always manufactured to the specific ations of the customer or for specific scientific tasks.Hence the marketing and sales function is also carried on by aerospace engineers. There job entails liason work with the technical team and clients for ensuring production specifications as well as ensuring that the product performs as planned.

Technicians

Technicians working in the aircrafts and space crafts manufacturing plants are trained as - Aeronautical and Aerospace technicians, Aircraft mechanics and Avionics technicians. Aeronautical Technicians and aerospace technicians differ from technologists/engineers in these fields as they are diploma holders .

They work with engineers to maintain, construct , test, operate, and maintain the basic structure of aircrafts/spacecrafts, as well as propulsion and control systems. They may be required to even assist in technical assessments. Airlines employ technicians to supervise maintenance of aircrafts and help in installation of new equipments. In manufacturing organisations technicians are part of the research, development and design work. Technicians working in astronautical engineering division i.e in space centres or in manufacturing conduct more specialised tasks. Physiological technicians operate and explain the procedures for using pressure suits, pressure chambers, ejection seats that simulate flying conditions. Flight training equipment , radio equipment, meteorological devise uses are their areas of responsibility. Avionic technicians repair, test, install and maintain radar and radio equipment aboard aircraft and space craft. Electronic technicians assist engineers in the development and assembly of electronic and electromechanical systems. All aspects of engineering, industrial, mechanical, metallurgical, instrumentation require technical support staff.

Work Environment

Aerospace engineers (Aeronautical/Astronautical) spend much time on the computer and drawing boards. Those engineers who are involved with
testing of components may have to work at the test sites. These could be in controlled test labs.The manufacturing task takes them to the shop floor and involves movement accross the production lines of aircraft/spacecraft
manufacturing plants.

Engineers are required to also travel for coordinating the activities of the manufacturers of small parts or while meeting with the clients.When there is a crash engineers may be required for the examination and assessment of the cause.

Personal Characteristics

The manufacture of aircrafts/ spacecrafts require very intelligent people. Good analytical ability, an excellent academic background, scientific acumen and responsible attitude is essential for aerospace engineers. Physical stamina, ability to work for long hours and to spend several days at crucial assignments makes the task very challenging.

Study/Training

Engineers

Aerospace engineering requires at the Class XII level a good performance in Mathematics, Physics, English and proficiency in Mechanical Drawing and Computers.This must be followed by a degree in Aeronautical engineering /Aerospace engineering. NASA recommends a degree in a variety of disciplines, including biomedical engineering, ceramic engineering, chemistry, industrial engineering, materials engineering, metallurgy, optical engineering, and oceanography. Aerospace engineers generally specialise at the masters level in these various areas of specialisation and even do a PH.D before being taken in by NASA.

In India the people entering manufacturing sector (Hindustan Aeronautical Ltd. and National Aeronautical Ltd) are postgraduates in the areas relevant to the manufacturing industry enumerated in an earlier section.

Technicians

The aircrafts manufacturing sector employs technicians with a good academic record and graduates of Physical Sciences, Computers, Mathematics, Electronics with training in aeronautical engineering. These courses have been described in preceding sections.