5 Ways to Make Aircraft Maintenance Pay Well
Aircraft mechanics play a critical role in keeping planes safe, efficient, and operational. However, many mechanics feel stuck in their careers, unsure how to break into higher-paying roles. With the right skills, certifications, and career path choices, earning six figures in aircraft maintenance isn’t just possible—it’s common.
If you’ve ever wondered which type of aircraft mechanic makes the most money, where to work for the best salary, or how to maximize your earning potential, this guide will break it all down. We’ll explore the highest-paying specializations, where aircraft maintenance pays top dollar, and the certifications that can help you level up.
What Type of Aircraft Mechanic Makes the Most?
The highest-paid aircraft mechanics specialize in avionics, private jet maintenance, and aerospace/defense contracting. Avionics technicians, who work on advanced aircraft electrical and navigation systems, earn premium wages due to their technical expertise. Corporate and private jet mechanics often out-earn their airline counterparts because of high-end clients and customized maintenance needs. Defense contractors working for organizations like Lockheed Martin, Boeing, or NASA can make six figures, especially if they hold security clearances and specialize in military aircraft. Additionally, A&P mechanics with Inspection Authorization (IA) or management roles in major airlines earn some of the highest salaries in the industry.
While these specializations tend to offer the highest salaries, other factors—such as location, employer, and additional certifications—can significantly impact your earning potential. But what states pay aircraft mechanics the most? And how do you position yourself for top-tier jobs? Keep reading as we dive deeper into the best-paying career paths and strategies for maximizing your income in aircraft maintenance.
Does Aircraft Maintenance Pay Well?
Yes, aircraft maintenance pays well, especially when compared to other technical trades. The median annual wage for aircraft mechanics is around $75,400 per year, but those in specialized roles can earn well over six figures. Review the table below to see how it stacks up against similar maintenance and repair careers.
| Salary Comparison of Maintenance and Repair Careers | |
|---|---|
| Role | Median Pay (Annually) |
| Aircraft and Avionics Equipment Mechanics and Technicians | $75,400 |
| Diesel Mechanics | $58,970 |
| Automotive Technicians | $47,770 |
| Small Engine Mechanics | $46,500 |
Aircraft mechanics who pursue additional certifications, specialize in avionics, work in high-paying industries like private aviation or defense, or own aircraft maintenance facilities can significantly out-earn their peers in other skilled trades.
Where Do Aircraft Mechanics Make the Most Money?
Your location can make or break your salary potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest-paying states for aircraft mechanics (as of the latest data) are: New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Nevada, and Massachusetts.
| Highest Paying States For Aircraft Mechanics | |
|---|---|
| State | Average Salary (Annually) |
| New York | $95,070 |
| New Jersey | $90,340 |
| Maryland | $89,770 |
| Nevada | $89,120 |
| Massachusetts | $87,080 |
What State is the Best for Aircraft Mechanics?
Deciding where to work as an aircraft mechanic involves more than just looking at salary figures. While some states offer the highest wages, others provide a better balance between income and cost of living. Additionally, job availability varies based on the presence of major airline hubs and aircraft maintenance facilities.
If the highest salary is your top priority, states like New York, New Jersey, and Maryland offer the highest average wages for aircraft mechanics. However, these locations also come with higher living expenses. For those seeking the best balance between earnings and affordability, Illinois, Minnesota, and Georgia stand out. These states offer competitive salaries while maintaining a relatively lower cost of living. Additionally, housing and everyday expenses in these states tend to be more manageable compared to the coastal regions with the highest wages.
Job availability is another key factor to consider. Texas, California, and Florida have some of the largest concentrations of aircraft maintenance facilities, airline hubs, and aerospace companies in the country. These states host major operations for airlines like American, Southwest, Delta, and United, as well as maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities that service both commercial and private aircraft. With high demand for skilled mechanics, these locations provide some of the best long-term career prospects in aviation maintenance.
| Best Locations For Aircraft Mechanics | |
|---|---|
| Priority | States |
| Highest Salaries | New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Nevada, Massachusetts |
| Balancing Earnings & Cost of Living | Illinois, Minnesota, Georgia, Nevada, Oklahoma |
| Job Availability | Texas, Florida, California, Oklahoma, Georgia |
Consider too that taxes will vary in each state and impact your take home pay. Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Wyoming have no state income tax, allowing mechanics to keep more of their earnings.
Ultimately, the best state for an aircraft mechanic depends on personal priorities. Whether you prioritize salary, affordability, or job security, weighing these factors can help you make the best decision for your career.
Average Annual Aircraft Mechanic Salary Adjusted For Cost of Living (By State)
| State | Cost of Living Index (100 = National Avg. Cost of Living) | Annual Salary (Average) | Adjusted For Cost of Living (Average) | Annual Salary (Median) | Adjusted For Cost of Living (Median) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 88.800 | $74,890 | $84,335.59 | $85,410 | $96,182.43 |
| Alaska | 124.400 | $80,820 | $64,967.85 | $80,270 | $64,525.72 |
| Arizona | 107.200 | $74,530 | $69,524.25 | $70,160 | $65,447.76 |
| Arkansas | 90.300 | $56,490 | $62,558.14 | $56,970 | $63,089.70 |
| California | 134.500 | $81,730 | $60,765.80 | $80,280 | $59,687.73 |
| Colorado | 105.500 | $78,000 | $73,933.65 | $75,730 | $71,781.99 |
| Connecticut | 113.100 | $77,240 | $68,293.55 | $75,790 | $67,011.49 |
| Delaware | 102.600 | $83,120 | $81,013.65 | $81,470 | $79,405.46 |
| Florida | 102.300 | $70,290 | $68,709.68 | $64,340 | $62,893.45 |
| Georgia | 91.000 | $81,960 | $90,065.93 | $75,300 | $82,747.25 |
| Hawaii | 179.000 | $83,500 | $46,648.04 | $78,270 | $43,726.26 |
| Idaho | 106.100 | $65,860 | $62,073.52 | $63,420 | $59,773.80 |
| Illinois | 90.800 | $84,760 | $93,348.02 | $73,350 | $80,781.94 |
| Indiana | 91.500 | $62,510 | $68,316.94 | $61,020 | $66,688.52 |
| Iowa | 89.700 | $64,110 | $71,471.57 | $64,060 | $71,415.83 |
| Kansas | 87.700 | $71,530 | $81,562.14 | $76,320 | $87,023.95 |
| Kentucky | 93.800 | $79,450 | $84,701.49 | $70,720 | $75,394.46 |
| Louisiana | 92.000 | $71,460 | $77,673.91 | $67,810 | $73,706.52 |
| Maine | 111.500 | $73,940 | $66,313.90 | $76,650 | $68,744.39 |
| Maryland | 119.500 | $89,770 | $75,121.34 | $93,510 | $78,251.05 |
| Massachusetts | 148.400 | $87,080 | $58,679.25 | $82,420 | $55,539.08 |
| Michigan | 92.700 | $67,010 | $72,286.95 | $61,870 | $66,742.18 |
| Minnesota | 94.100 | $85,570 | $90,935.18 | $81,590 | $86,705.63 |
| Mississippi | 85.300 | $68,580 | $80,398.59 | $75,720 | $88,769.05 |
| Missouri | 88.400 | $70,260 | $79,479.64 | $67,560 | $76,425.34 |
| Montana | 103.700 | $64,010 | $61,726.13 | $62,150 | $59,932.50 |
| Nebraska | 90.100 | $62,060 | $68,879.02 | $61,760 | $68,546.06 |
| Nevada | 101.300 | $89,120 | $87,976.31 | $95,130 | $93,909.18 |
| New Hampshire | 115.000 | $68,450 | $59,521.74 | $68,580 | $59,634.78 |
| New Jersey | 114.100 | $90,340 | $79,176.16 | $82,970 | $72,716.91 |
| New Mexico | 94.200 | $50,430 | $53,535.03 | $47,640 | $50,573.25 |
| New York | 125.100 | $95,070 | $75,995.20 | $85,010 | $67,953.64 |
| North Carolina | 96.100 | $69,580 | $72,403.75 | $64,880 | $67,513.01 |
| North Dakota | 94.600 | $64,930 | $68,636.36 | $64,880 | $68,583.51 |
| Ohio | 94.000 | $77,170 | $82,095.74 | $74,170 | $78,904.26 |
| Oklahoma | 86.000 | $74,920 | $87,116.28 | $67,420 | $78,395.35 |
| Oregon | 115.100 | $83,390 | $72,450.04 | $77,260 | $67,124.24 |
| Pennsylvania | 99.000 | $71,360 | $72,080.81 | $63,910 | $64,555.56 |
| Rhode Island | 110.500 | $74,810 | $67,701.36 | $75,610 | $68,425.34 |
| South Carolina | 96.500 | $60,740 | $62,943.01 | $61,290 | $63,512.95 |
| South Dakota | 93.800 | $68,490 | $73,017.06 | $68,980 | $73,539.45 |
| Tennessee | 90.400 | $72,530 | $80,232.30 | $83,000 | $91,814.16 |
| Texas | 93.000 | $77,140 | $82,946.24 | $77,640 | $83,483.87 |
| Utah | 101.500 | $66,640 | $65,655.17 | $63,710 | $62,768.47 |
| Vermont | 114.900 | $69,400 | $60,400.35 | $71,610 | $62,323.76 |
| Virginia | 103.100 | $80,420 | $78,001.94 | $78,710 | $76,343.36 |
| Washington | 115.100 | $80,450 | $69,895.74 | $82,370 | $71,563.86 |
| West Virginia | 90.300 | $57,810 | $64,019.93 | $62,180 | $68,859.36 |
| Wisconsin | 95.000 | $59,730 | $62,873.68 | $56,470 | $59,442.11 |
| Wyoming | 92.800 | $67,010 | $72,209.05 | $69,450 | $74,838.36 |
High-Paying Specializations in Aircraft Maintenance
Pursuing additional certifications and specializing in particular markets can significantly improve your aircraft maintenance career’s income potential. Gaining advanced knowledge of specialized systems and the authority to sign off on major repairs will make you a more valuable and marketable aircraft mechanic.
| High Paying Specializations For Aircraft Mechanics | ||
|---|---|---|
| Specialization | Additional Value to Employers or Clients | Salary Potential |
| Avionics Technician | Requires advanced knowledge of electrical systems, navigation equipment, and software integration. | $75,000 - $120,000+ |
| Corporate & Private Jet Mechanics | Private jets require specialized maintenance, and wealthy clients expect top-tier service. | $85,000 - $140,000+ |
| Defense Contractors (NASA, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, etc.) | Military and aerospace mechanics work on classified aircraft, often requiring security clearances and specialized training. | $90,000 - $150,000+ |
| Helicopter Mechanics | Helicopters have complex mechanical and flight control systems that require additional training. | $90,000 - $150,000+ |
| A&P Mechanics with Inspection Authorization (IA) | IAs can inspect and sign off on major repairs, giving them more responsibility and higher pay. | $80,000 - $110,000+ |
| Aircraft Maintenance Business Owners | Business owners can leverage the skills, labor, and credentials of other A&P mechanics to scale their income. | $250,000+, Unlimited |
The Best Ways to Increase Your Earning Potential:
Specialize
One of the most effective ways to increase your salary as an aircraft mechanic is to specialize in a high-demand area rather than working as a generalist. Mechanics who focus on avionics, corporate/private jets, or military aircraft tend to earn more than those handling general maintenance on commercial airliners. Avionics technicians, for example, deal with complex electrical and navigation systems, which require advanced training and certifications, making them highly valuable to employers. Similarly, corporate jet mechanics often work on high-end aircraft owned by private individuals or businesses, where salaries are higher due to the specialized knowledge and personalized service required.
Seek Out High-Paying Contract Jobs
Short-term contract jobs, particularly in the defense and aerospace industries, can be extremely lucrative. Contractors working for companies like Lockheed Martin, Boeing, or government agencies often make six figures, especially if they possess security clearances or specialized training. These jobs may require frequent travel or relocation to military bases and high-security facilities, but the financial rewards can be significant. Contract mechanics often receive premium pay for working on high-priority projects, and some positions even include housing and travel allowances, further increasing the overall compensation.
Consider International Aviation Roles
Many countries have a high demand for skilled aircraft mechanics, and taking an international aviation job can be an excellent way to boost your income. Some overseas contracts, particularly those in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, offer tax-free salaries, housing benefits, and other financial incentives. Mechanics working in locations such as Dubai, Singapore, or Germany often earn higher wages than their counterparts in the U.S. due to lower labor supply and strong aviation industry growth in these regions. If you’re open to travel and working abroad, international contracts can provide a significant financial boost while offering unique professional experiences.
Obtain Leadership and Management Roles
Advancing into leadership roles is another proven way to increase your earnings in the aviation maintenance industry. Becoming a lead mechanic, maintenance manager, or director of maintenance can significantly boost your salary while providing additional job security. Leadership roles require a combination of hands-on experience, certifications, and management skills, but they come with increased responsibility and higher pay. Many airlines and MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) facilities offer pathways for mechanics to move into supervisory positions, often with structured training programs and mentorship opportunities.
Start Your Own Aircraft Maintenance Business
For those with an entrepreneurial mindset, starting an aircraft maintenance business can be the ultimate way to maximize earnings and take control of your career. Owning your own repair station, mobile maintenance service, or specialized avionics shop allows you to set your own rates, build a client base, and grow your income beyond the limitations of a salaried position. While launching a business requires investment, licensing, and business acumen, it can lead to long-term financial success and even provide the opportunity to employ and train other mechanics. Many successful aviation entrepreneurs begin by taking on independent contracts before expanding into a full-fledged business operation.
Conclusion
The highest-paying aircraft mechanic careers require specialization, strategic job selection, and continual skill development. Whether you choose avionics, corporate jets, defense contracting, or leadership roles, the potential for six-figure earnings is within reach.Want to improve your earning potential even further? Starting your own aircraft maintenance business can be the key to financial freedom and unlimited income potential.
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