A&P via distance learning

[shon7]

Can anyone suggest good schools for getting my A&P license. Am currently working so am unable to take time off and pursue the A&P full time.
Are there any schools that offer Part Time programs. How do I go about getting the practical experience?

 

[Berkut]

Where do you live?

There are many schools that offer part-time and evening programs. Check on community colleges in your area.

If you are interested in earning your A&P through practical experience, you need the equivalent of 18 months of full-time work for either the airframe or powerplant, or 30 months for both. "Full time" in this context meaning 40 hour workweeks. You might try asking around at your local shops to see if they are looking for some cheap help and gain the experience that way.

Distance learning for the A&P is kinda iffy. In a college program, there will be some non-aviation specific classes you will have to take, most of which are available online.

 

[shon7]

Thanks. Currently based in SEA but will be moving to the JFK/EWR region. Any schools in either of these cities that you recommend for part-time and/or distance learning.

 

[avbug]

Shon,

Distance learning is out of the question. Many community colleges, trade schools, and even universities have training programs toward a degree with the AMT certificates as part of it. Full time you can hammer out your certificates in a year to a year and a half, but part time it may take a while.

Aviation Maintenance is definitely a hands-on profession. Accordingly, the training is hands-on. Some excellent texts are available to introduce you to some of the material, but it's not something you can learn by correspondence. This is why someone who is qualifying to take the tests based on experience must have 30 months of full time hands on experience...and then you're qualified to start learning. Think of it this way...can you get your pilot certificate via distance learning? Of course not. The mechanic certificate is far more involved than any level of pilot certification, and covers a very broad range of topics.

You might try the Pittsburg Institute of Aeronautics, Teterboro School of Aeronautics, New Jersey Academy of Aviation Science, Aviation Training Institute at Vaugn College of Aviation (laguardia-ny), Lewis Wilson Technological Center (farmingdale-ny), or Mohawk Valley Community college (rome-ny). The info is on the net.

As far as getting the practical experience, you need to find employment in a shop or repair station that can put you to work full time (as mentioned before, 30 months full time, which equates to 60 months part time) as a mechanic's assistant. Working in a FAA-certficated repair station, you don't need a mechanic certificate, because you're working under the station certificate...and many such places will recommend you for the test when your time comes and send you on your way. Finding a place and getting hired is something else entirely. You may be able to find that work with your local FBO as a starting point. Expect a very low wage to start, but it is a start.

If you have the option of going to a formal school, while it isn't necessary, I highly recommend it.

 

[CRJ's suck]

Shon,


Aviation Maintenance is definitely a hands-on profession. Accordingly, the training is hands-on. Some excellent texts are available to introduce you to some of the material, but it's not something you can learn by correspondence. This is why someone who is qualifying to take the tests based on experience must have 30 months of full time hands on experience...and then you're qualified to start learning. Think of it this way...can you get your pilot certificate via distance learning? Of course not. The mechanic certificate is far more involved than any level of pilot certification, and covers a very broad range of topics.

I always thought after getting your certs was when you were qualified to start learning. jk Seriously though, pretty much what everyone else said is the way to go. You don't need to spend alot of money for the training, just find a reputable program. Take a tour of a few different facilities also before you sign on.