Aviation Inspectors are essential in making sure airplanes are working optimally. They are responsible for conducting preflight inspections, examining all equipment, and suggesting repairs to ensure the safety of the aircraft and its passengers and crew. They investigate accidents, equipment failures, and review maintenance procedures to ensure the aircraft complies with federal safety regulations.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct flight test programs to test instruments, equipment, and systems
- Inspect all aspects of an aircraft for the safety and security of its passengers and crew
- Ensure adherence to standards and procedures with federal regulations
- Suggest the repair or replacement of aircraft equipment
- Determine the cause of air accidents
- Maintain records regarding inspections, repairs, and investigations
- Issue licenses to pilots
Education and Background
This position requires an associate degree, but employers prefer candidates who have a bachelor’s degree and experience repairing aircraft.
Skills and Competencies
- Expertise in written and verbal communication
- Excellent troubleshooting, problem-solving, and collaborative skills
- Extensive knowledge of machines and tools, including their design, uses, repair, and maintenance
- Deep comprehension of laws that govern the handling and maintenance of aircraft
- Keen attention to detail
Compensation
According to Payscale the median annual salary of an Aviation Inspector with
1 Year of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $71,000
- Tampa, Florida: $75,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $74,000
- Miami, Florida: $70,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $85,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $81,000
- Houston, Texas: $85,000
- Los Angeles, California: $89,000
- New York City, New York: $89,000
- Seattle, Washington: $85,000
- Overall: $84,000
5 Years of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $77,000
- Tampa, Florida: $80,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $75,000
- Miami, Florida: $88,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $89,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $90,000
- Houston, Texas: $91,000
- Los Angeles, California: $95,000
- New York City, New York: $101,000
- Seattle, Washington: $89,000
- Overall: $94,000
Similar Titles
- Aircraft Inspector
- Aviation Safety Inspector
- Aircraft Technical Inspector
- Quality Inspector
Career Path
This position requires an associate degree, but employers prefer candidates who have a bachelor’s degree and experience repairing aircraft. Aviation Inspectors will typically advance to enroll in graduate programs, allowing them to train Aviation Mechanics and other inspectors.
Position Trends
According to the website Mainblades, one trend that will affect Aviation Inspectors is the growing use of drones for aircraft inspections. Another trend is the rise of robotics — Robots can inspect components that are otherwise difficult for humans to access.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for Aviation Inspectors should decline by 18 percent from 2018 to 2028. Continued improvements in technology allow manufacturers to automate inspection tasks, reducing the demand for inspectors.
Typical Hours
The typical work hours for an Aviation Inspector are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where You Can Find Jobs
Are You Interested in Becoming an Aviation Inspector?
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