An aircraft engineer is also commonly known as an aircraft technician. Both terms are used interchangeably in the aviation industry. In general, an aircraft engineer is responsible for ensuring that the aircraft operates safely and properly. All individuals performing this role have to be trained as well as certified to carry out the maintenance tasks of an aircraft. The repair and maintenance procedures must be compliant with the CAA (Civil Aviation Authority) regulations.
As a motivated B1 engineer, you can use your experience gained during the aircraft engineering environment to carry out maintenance tasks, including all the scheduled as well as unscheduled maintenance as per the requirements of the airlines.
Role of a B1 engineer:
A B1 aircraft engineer is a licensed employee hired as an aircraft specialist to organise, plan and conduct maintenance checks. All these checks and repairs must be compliant with the maintenance schedule of the airline, including the times when specific problems are identified in an aircraft.
Category B1 license is a component of the Part 66 license system which provides a certification to the aircraft engineer fulfilling all the EASA requirements. In the UK, a B1 license is issued by the CAA so only B1 license holders are qualified to work on aircraft engines including the mainframes. Just like the pilots are trained and licensed to fly an aircraft, maintenance engineers are also licensed to not only maintain the aircraft but also certify the release of aircraft into service.
Responsibilities and duties of B1 engineer:
B1 engineer responsibilities mainly revolve around the inspection, maintenance, and repair of an aircraft that may require long working hours. All the tasks performed are in line with the FAA regulations. Some of the main responsibilities of B1 aircraft engineers are listed below.
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Undertake projects and tasks related to the maintenance of an aircraft
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Exercise approval related to everyday processes and inspection
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Ensure the completion of high-quality work related to the aircraft, and its components, and complete documentation
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Ensure that facilities, premises, and equipment are maintained to a generally accepted standard
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Ensure that the defects are accurately defined by the crews and rightly recorded
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Analyse and interpret any technical information related to the aircraft
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Read engineering manuals and diagrams
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Work in collaboration with other departments to finish the project work
To qualify as a B1 engineer, you need to be trained and experienced in aircraft inspection and maintenance. Though aimed to work at line maintenance, they also work at base maintenance. Some b1 engineer duties include,
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Perform and certify all maintenance activities at the main base and field locations
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Perform maintenance operations as followed by the MOM (Maintenance Organisation Manual), giving particular importance to health and safety standards
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Provide certification on company documentation
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Forward the weekly flight schedule, inspection sheets, and other information regarding the maintenance to the main base as part of the daily routine
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Verify if any part or component to be installed in an aircraft is certified and in working condition
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Provide logistical support if needed
Whilst the aircraft engineers uphold the highest level of standards, each individual employed for the role helps to deliver repair, overhaul, defect rectification and investigation, and modifications.
Fulfilling their responsibilities – skills needed:
Though it offers financial rewards, the job of an aircraft engineer is demanding and challenging at the same time. An individual requires a certain set of skills to make a great career out of this job.
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Problem solver – You need to relish in handling complex issues and offer creative solutions
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Be flexible – Be quick in responding to changing circumstances
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Effective communication – Maintain a good standard of written and verbal English skills
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Show resilience –Be optimistic, focused, and composed in difficult situations and learn from your failures
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Give attention to detail –Show thoroughness to accomplish a task and pay close attention to minute details
Eligibility criteria of a B1 aircraft engineer:
To be eligible for the role of an aircraft engineer, you need to qualify for the standard set by the regulatory bodies. Here are some of the requirements that most airlines look for in their candidates;
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A bachelor’s degree or associate in the aviation field, specifically maintenance technology
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Certification from the relevant governing body, for example the FAA, CAA or EASA
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Excel in mental dexterity and focus on attention to detail
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Strong knowledge of aviation as well as power tools, diagnostic equipment, and computers
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Adjust to flexible working hours
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Great interpersonal and problem-solving skills
Frequently asked questions:
What is the responsibility of an aircraft maintenance engineer?
Typical duties of an aircraft engineer include daily maintenance and carrying out overhaul programs of an aircraft. They check the condition of an aircraft and its engine and ensure adjustments and replacement of the aircraft. Any repairs are done in accordance with the maintenance procedures approved by the regulatory bodies.
What is the difference between B1 and B2 aircraft engineers?
Category B is the standard license attained by aircraft engineers to carry out their duties. Category B license is divided into two parts; B1 and B2. B1 engineers are involved in the mechanics of an aircraft, including engines and airframes. B2 engineers deal with avionics. They check the instrumentation and electronic equipment of the aircraft.
How can I become a B1 engineer?
To become a B1 engineer, you need to have several years of experience in servicing inspection and aircraft maintenance. Successful candidates must excel at troubleshooting and have strong interpersonal and communication skills. They should also have good health and must be available at flexible work hours.
How do I get a B1 aircraft license?
Eligibility criteria for an aircraft engineer require the candidates to pass the standard modular examination and have an experience in aircraft maintenance for a prescribed period. You must also have a minimum grade of C in GCSE with maths and science as compulsory subjects. Practical experience is also beneficial when joining the field.
Is aircraft engineering a good job?
There are a lot of career progression opportunities for an aircraft engineer. Since the job comes with great responsibilities, it requires the employees to be disciplined. Also, it is one of the highest-paying jobs for which an undergraduate degree isn’t a prerequisite. However, employees with graduate degrees are preferred for the field.
