Aircraft mechanics typically:

• Examine aircraft frames and parts for defects
• Diagnose mechanical or electrical problems
• Measure parts for wear, using precision instruments
• Read maintenance manuals to identify methods of repair
• Repair wings, brakes, electrical systems, and other aircraft components
• Replace defective parts, using hand tools
• Test aircraft parts with gauges and other diagnostic equipment
• Inspect completed work to ensure that it meets performance standards
• Keep records of maintenance and repair work.

Today’s airplanes are highly complex machines that require reliable parts and service to fly safely. To keep an airplane in peak operating condition, they do scheduled maintenance, make repairs, and complete inspections.

Some mechanics work on many different types of aircraft, such as jets, propeller-driven airplanes, and helicopters. Others specialize in one section of a particular type of aircraft, such as the engine, hydraulics, or electrical system of a jet. In small, independent repair shops, mechanics usually inspect and repair many different types of aircraft. Most mechanics who work on civilian aircraft have some sort of official certification. Mechanics that have this certificate are authorized to work on any part of the aircraft, except electronic flight instruments. Maintaining a plane’s electronic flight instruments is the job of avionics technicians.