The Civil Aviation Industry refers to the segment of the aviation sector that primarily deals with civilian, non-military activities. It encompasses various aspects of commercial and private air travel, including passenger and cargo transportation, airport operations, aircraft manufacturing, maintenance, and related services.
When it comes to the operation of Commercial or Private Aircraft including, Passenger Aircraft & Cargo Aircraft owned by Airlines, Individuals, Corporates, Government Organizations (Central or State), Semi-Government Organizations, Public Enterprises, or Private Enterprises, falls under the purview of the Civil Aviation Department, Government of India and require day to day maintenance asper the national and international regulatory standards which has to be strictly followed by every country as per the rule of their land.
An Aircraft Maintenance Engineer's License is not merely a choice, it's a mandatory requirement for every Airline/company or individual having Aircraft in civil aviation. In essence, Aircraft Maintenance Engineering License holders, or authorized certifying Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, are an absolute mandatory requirement within every Maintenance Repair and Overhauling Organizations (MROs), particularly where registered civil aircraft under the Government of India's civil aviation authority are located (In India or in any other country).
An AME license adds to an individual's credibility within the aviation industry as it is considered as an authority to ensure the airworthiness of aircraft. It demonstrates a commitment to professionalism, safety, and quality maintenance practices. AME is a job profile with high dignity and sense of responsibilities.
While the AME license is obtained in India, the skills and knowledge gained through the licensing process are recognized internationally and can be endorsed in the member countries of ICAO, United Nation (UN) on meeting their specific requirements. This can open up opportunities for Indian AMES to work in other countries or collaborate on global aviation projects by passing their respective country's examinations as per their prevailing civil aviation rules.
A career as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer offers an exciting and impactful journey within the aviation industry. The combination of technical expertise, safety consciousness, and commitment to excellence makes this role integral to ensuring safe flights for passengers and crew.
Before an aircraft takes-off from any Airports/Airstrips/Helipads in India, it must be certified as fit for flying in all respects by Licensed or authorized Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME). The certification provided by the authorized AME serves as confirmation that the aircraft is in compliance with safety regulations and is suitable for flight. This certification is a critical step before any aircraft can operate in Indian airspace. This process ensures strict adherence to the civil aviation regulations, which are designed to uphold the highest standards of aviation safety.
Responsibilities of Aircraft Maintenance Engineers: Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) is indeed a job profile with extremely high responsibility, so it is ensured that, only capable candidates are awarded with this licence as per the CAR 66 regulations as this role is essential for the safe flying of aircraft. AMES shoulder an enormous responsibility concerning the airworthiness and safety of an aircraft. Their role is critical in ensuring that an aircraft is fit for flight.
Once an aircraft is released for flight, there is zero tolerance for any untoward incidents. The safety of passengers, the aircraft, and surrounding infrastructure is paramount. The consequences of any lapses in maintenance or safety can be irreparable, both in terms of human lives and the integrity of aircraft and infrastructure. National and international aviation regulatory bodies take stringent measures to prevent untoward incidents during flight. They set and enforce strict international standards to ensure aviation safety.
As AME holds very big responsibility in ensuring the aircraft safety and airworthiness and is responsible for safe flying of aircraft which holds an utmost position an indeed hold a heroic role in the aviation industry. Their expertise and commitment to safeguard the lives of passengers and the integrity of aircraft.
Accordingly, Aircraft Maintenance Engineer's license are issued after ensuring the capabilities of candidates for such a highly precise post. Candidates are required to pass all the relevant module examinations (even if it takes several attempts for passing any particular module examinations), they have to obtain the aircraft maintenance experience from any MRO approved by DGCA, Govt. of India under CAR-145 regulations as defined in civil aviation rules (CAR-66).
Generally, it is observed in the aviation industry that, "Where
there is aircraft and maintenance activities are undertaken, there is a need for licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMES)". Civil Aviation authorities like the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)-India, Federal Aviation Authority (FAA)-USA, European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)-Europe and other respective regulatory bodies of 193 member countries of ICAO, mandates that all aircraft maintenance must be certified by licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineers.
In the context of Indian registered aircraft under civil aviation department, regardless of their type (light aircraft, heavy aircraft, turboprop aircraft, jet engine aircraft, helicopters, etc.) and their purpose (passenger travel, cargo transport, air ambulance, joy rides, personal use, flying training etc.), the aircraft must receive a certificate of release from a licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer (AME) before it is allowed to fly regardless of whether it's departing from a smaller airstrip or aerodrome or from a major international airport.
In adherence to regulations set by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Government of India, no Indian aircraft is permitted to take flight from any airport without possessing a valid certificate of release. These certificates can only be issued by licensed AMES for any individual, corporate entity, or government-owned aircraft to operate.
Similarly, every maintenance of aircraft components/ engines and its systems whether carried out on aircraft or in the maintenance workshop or labs (MRO as per CAR-145 Regulations) are certified by licensed aircraft maintenance engineer or authorized certifying staff in order to release that component after the maintenance for service.
The growing number of aircraft being imported into India, whether for commercial airlines, corporate use, government operations, or other purposes, directly correlates with an increased demand for licensed AMES. The requirement for licensed AMES is on the rise due to the expanding aviation industry and the increasing number of aircraft operating in Indian airspace.
It's crucial for organizations involved in the repair and maintenance of aircraft to have a qualified and certified team to ensure the safety and airworthiness of the aircraft. In aviation industry companies, approved by DGCA, various positions and roles are defined to meet regulatory requirements and maintain aviation safety standards. Here are some key positions within such organizations can be hold with licence or
Licensed AMES are responsible for the actual maintenance and repair of aircraft. They hold licenses issued by the aviation authority and are authorized to certify the airworthiness of aircraft after maintenance.
This role typically involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of the maintenance department, including scheduling, personnel management, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
Responsible for managing Aircraft component maintenance workshops, ensuring that maintenance tasks are performed to the required standards.
Quality Managers are responsible for establishing and maintaining a quality management system to ensure that all maintenance activities meet regulatory and quality standards.
This role focuses on ensuring that aircraft remain in an airworthy condition throughout their operational life, including oversight of maintenance programs etc.
Planning Managers are involved in scheduling maintenance tasks, allocating resources, and ensuring that maintenance activities are carried out efficiently.
These technicians perform maintenance tasks under the supervision of licensed AMES. They assist in inspections, repairs, and component replacements.
Technical Officers provide technical support and expertise in various areas, such as avionics, airframe, or powerplant systems.
Store Inspectors are responsible for managing and inspecting aircraft spare parts and components to ensure their quality and airworthiness.